Travel Vaccines and Advice for the British Virgin Islands
The British Virgin Islands is a British territory in the Caribbean. There are 5 main islands (Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Anegada, and Jost Van Dyke), as well as 50 smaller islands and cays. In total the islands comprise 145 square kilometres.
This popular tourist destination is known for its many beaches, making it easy to find your own area. On warm, sunny day you can sail from island to island, enjoying the cool ocean breeze and clear waters. Those who are a bit more adventurous may want to go scuba diving and see fish, turtles, or even sunken boats. Others may want to go surf, kiteboard, windsurf, or fish.
After a long day on the beach, relax by shopping for local-made treasures and have a fresh seafood dinner. Wash it all down with the rink of choice, rum, at one of the many local bars. Make sure to choose one with live music for a truly local experience. Finally, rest in a bungalow or luxury hotel and repeat everything again the next day.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for the British Virgin Islands?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in the British Virgin Islands?
Do I Need a Visa for the British Virgin Islands?
What Is the Climate Like in the British Virgin Islands?
How Safe are the British Virgin Islands?
Visit Devil’s Bay National Park
What Should I Take to the British Virgin Islands?
Canadian Embassy in the British Virgin Islands
Do I Need Vaccines for the British Virgin Islands?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for British Virgin Islands. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for British Virgin Islands: typhoid, hepatitis A, polio, rabies, hepatitis B, influenza, pneumonia, meningitis, chickenpox, shingles, Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) and measles, mumps and rubella (MMR).
See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:
- Typhoid –
Food & Water –
Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. - Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travellers. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travellers to any destination. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
Vaccine recommended for long-term travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Recommended for travellers to most regions. - Influenza –
Airborne –
Vaccine components change annually. - COVID-19 –
Airborne –
Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. - Pneumonia –
Airborne –
Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. - Meningitis –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. - Chickenpox –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. - Shingles –
Direct Contact –
Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended. - TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) –
Wounds & Airborne –
Only one adult booster of pertussis required. - Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) –
Various Vectors –
Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.
See the table below for more information:
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for British Virgin Islands |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Typhoid | Food & Water | Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. |
| Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travellers. |
| Polio | Food & Water | Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travellers to any destination. |
| Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | Vaccine recommended for long-term travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Recommended for travellers to most regions. |
Routine Vaccinations for British Virgin Islands |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Influenza | Airborne | Vaccine components change annually. |
| COVID-19 | Airborne | Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. |
| Pneumonia | Airborne | Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. |
| Meningitis | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. |
| Chickenpox | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. |
| Shingles | Direct Contact | Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. |
| TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) | Wounds & Airborne | Only one adult booster of pertussis required. |
| Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) | Various Vectors | Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended. |
Specific Vaccine Information
- Typhoid – Typhoid is transmitted via fecally contaminated food or water, causing severe symptoms. To prevent it, practice hand-washing, consume safe water and food, and consider vaccination, especially when travelling to high-risk areas.
- Hepatitis A – Hepatitis A, a liver infection caused by a contagious virus, can have severe symptoms. To prevent its spread, vaccination with the hepatitis A vaccine is essential, along with maintaining hygiene practices. This vaccine effectively protects against infection.
- Rabies – Rabies is a deadly viral disease that affects mammals and spreads through the saliva of infected animals, primarily through bites or scratches. Preventing rabies involves vaccinating pets, avoiding contact with wild animals, and seeking immediate medical attention if exposed. The rabies vaccine is a crucial preventive measure that stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies against the virus.
- Hepatitis B – Hepatitis B prevention relies on vaccination as the most effective measure, recommended for all travellers and critical for healthcare workers. Practicing safe sex and using sterile equipment for body modifications are also key in reducing transmission risks.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are contagious viral infections, causing various symptoms and complications. To prevent them, vaccination is key. The MMR vaccine, given in two doses, safeguards against all three diseases and helps establish herd immunity, reducing the risk of outbreaks.
Dengue and Zika are both present in the British Virgin Islands. Make sure to bring and use mosquito repellent. Zika is a larger risk for women who are pregnant or may become pregnant. Consider changing travel plans and take extra precautions if you are in this group.
See our vaccinations page to learn more about these infections and vaccines. Ready to protect yourself? Book your travel health appointment today by calling or schedule online now.
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in the British Virgin Islands
Prevent Bug Bites in the British Virgin Islands
Safeguard against bug bites by dressing appropriately and using EPA-registered repellents with DEET, picaridin, or OLE. If bitten, cleanse the area, refrain from scratching, and mitigate discomfort with OTC treatments. Seek medical aid for serious reactions.
Food and Water Safety the in British Virgin Islands
Safely enjoying meals abroad involves precautions like washing hands, avoiding street food, and consuming well-cooked dishes. Opt for bottled or canned drinks and stay vigilant about seal integrity. Preventing travellers’ diarrhea means maintaining hand hygiene, avoiding raw foods, and selecting reputable eateries.
Infections To Be Aware of in the British Virgin Islands
- African Tick-Bite Fever – ATBF, transmitted by ticks in sub-Saharan Africa, can be prevented by wearing protective clothing, using insect repellent, and checking for ticks. For additional protection, inquire about available options from healthcare experts before travelling to affected areas.
- Dengue – The threat of dengue fever, carried by Aedes mosquitoes, looms large worldwide, with millions infected each year. Prevention through nettings and repellents is a must.
- Zika – Zika, primarily transmitted by mosquitoes, can have severe consequences, especially for pregnant women. Prevention measures include using repellent, practicing safe sex, and removing mosquito breeding sites.
Do I Need a Visa for the British Virgin Islands?
A passport which is valid for at least 6 months from the expected date of departure is required to enter the country. A tourist and business visa is not required for stays up to 6 months. A departure tax, which is payable by cash only, is charged even for cruise ship passengers.
British Virgin Islands Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to the British Virgin Islands? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | ||
| Vaccinations | ||
Sources: Embassy of the British Virgin Islands and Canadian Travel and Tourism
Visit the Canadian Travel and Tourism website for more information on entry and exit requirements.
What Is the Climate Like in the British Virgin Islands?
The British Virgin Islands has a tropical rain forest climate. There are warm temperatures year-round and trade winds blowing cool air.
The temperature stays between 20 and 30 year-round. January through March have the coldest temperatures and August and September the warmest.
There is a great deal of rain, with the islands receiving about 110 centimetres of rain each year. The wettest months are September through November and the driest are February and March. Between June and November, there is the threat of hurricanes.
How Safe are the British Virgin Islands?
To stay safe while travelling in the British Virgin Islands, there are some things you can do. Pay attention to your surroundings and be cautious of anything that seems strange. It’s a good idea to avoid walking alone at night and to keep your valuable items like jewelry and passports in a safe place. Learn about the local laws and customs, and follow them.
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, and protect your skin from the strong sun with sunscreen. Be careful when swimming, and don’t go alone or in unsafe areas. If you rent a boat or other watercraft, make sure you know how to use it safely and always wear a life jacket. Know where the nearest hospital or emergency services are in case of an emergency.
By doing these things, you can enjoy your time in the British Virgin Islands and stay safe.
Visit Devil’s Bay National Park
Avoid an Embarrassing Stop
Over 70% of travellers
will have diarrhea.
Get protected with Passport Health’s
travellers’ diarrhea kit!
If you’re looking for a gorgeous, sandy spot away from the crowds, Devil’s Bay National Park is the ideal spot.
A dirt road that is well-traveled may not be the best first impression. Warm sand and blue waters will greet you upon entering the Bay. There are tall trees that provide plenty of shelter from the son and serve as an excellent spot to lounge under.
If you bring your snorkeling gear to explore the beautiful rocks and colorful fish in the waters nearby. If you just want to rest, the water there is calm and perfect for closing your eyes and floating. After playing in the water for a while, head to the Beach Bar for a Piña colada to cool you off.
What Should I Take to the British Virgin Islands?
A trip to the British Virgin Islands is a must for many travellers. Make sure you have everything you need for your trip:
- Light Clothing – It can get very hot and humid on the islands. You will be most comfortable in light, flowy clothing.
- Sunscreen – Lounging on the beach or exploring the outdoors, make sure to lather up in sunscreen.
- Comfortable Footwear – Most travellers take a chance to walk around and explore. Make sure you have comfortable shoes.
- Bug Spray – Mosquitoes are common in the British Virgin Islands. Bring bug spray to avoid getting bitten.
Canadian Embassy to the British Virgin Islands
When travelling it is very helpful to find out exactly where the Canadian Embassy or consulates are located. Keep the address written down in case you have a legal problem, you lose your passport, or you want to report a crime. Be sure to keep a copy of your passport with you in case you lose the original.
There is no Canadian Embassy on the British Virgin Islands. The embassy in Barbados serves this area:
High Commission of Canada to Barbados
Bishop’s Court Hill,
St. Michael,
P.O. Box 404,
Bridgetown, Barbados BB11113
Tel.: +246 629 3550
Ready to start your next journey? Call us at or book online now!
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for the British Virgin Islands
“The nurse was extremely friendly, knowledgeable, and efficient. All travel vaccine requirements and recommendations were explained clearly and all questions about the British Virgin Islands were answered thoroughly. Would highly recommend her and the clinic to others who need travel medication.”
“The nurse was very well informed about the travel advisories and the current health concerns in area I would be going to. She explained and answered all my questions. I feel better about going off to BVI.”
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