The Caribbean Islands Travel Requirements & Vaccinations
The Caribbean is a region located southeast of the Gulf of Mexico and north of South America that is comprised of more than 700 islands in the Caribbean Sea. Some of the more commonly known destinations in the region include Aruba, Barbados, the Cayman Islands, the Bahamas and Antigua. Spanish, English and French are the predominant languages spoken throughout the region.
The geography of the different islands varies greatly – some regions are relatively flat while others are mountainous or volcanic. Most have picturesque coastlines that may feature islets, coral reefs, cays and seagrass meadows in the shallow waters bordering the islands. Climates are generally tropical in the region but can vary from tropical rainforest in some areas to tropical savanna in others.
Tourist attractions in the Caribbean will differ based on the island you are visiting but most destinations will feature:
- Diverse fish and wildlife populations
- Expansive, sandy beaches
- Cultural events and carnivals
Recommended Vaccines When Traveling to the Caribbean
Travelers may also be advised to ensure they have received the routine vaccinations listed below. Some adults may need to receive a booster for some of these diseases:
- Measles, mumps and rubella (MMR)
- Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis)
- Chickenpox
- Polio
- Influenza
Older adults or those with certain medical conditions may also want to ask about being vaccinated for shingles and/or pneumonia.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a travel medicine professional. Not all of the vaccines listed here will be necessary for every individual.
Talk to the experts at UH Roe Green Center for Travel Medicine & Global Health to determine how each member of your family can obtain maximum protection against illness, disease and injury while traveling, based on age, health, medical history and travel itinerary.