Travel Vaccines and Advice for Curacao
A tropical island located north of the equator, Curacao is known for its crystal-clear waters and gorgeous beaches.
Willemstad, the capital city, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its unique architecture and historic buildings. With plenty of ocean attractions and land adventures, plus a vibrant nightlife, Curacao is a perfect island getaway.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Curacao?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Curacao
Do I Need a Visa for Curacao?
What Is the Climate Like in Curacao?
How Safe Is Curacao?
Snorkeling and Scuba Diving in Curacao
What Should I Pack for Curacao?
Canadian Consulate in Curacao
Do I Need Vaccines for Curacao?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Curacao. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Curacao: typhoid, hepatitis A, polio, yellow fever, 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. - Yellow Fever –
Mosquito –
Required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. - 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 Curacao |
||
| 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. |
| Yellow Fever | Mosquito | Required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. |
| 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 Curacao |
||
| 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 fever, caused by Salmonella Typhi, is transmitted through contaminated food and water sources. Vaccination is recommended for travellers and those at higher risk of typhoid exposure. Implementing rigorous hygiene practices and food safety measures is essential for comprehensive protection against infection.
- Hepatitis A – Hepatitis A is a highly contagious liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus, typically spreading through contaminated food or water. Symptoms include jaundice, fatigue, and abdominal pain. The hepatitis A vaccine is an effective prevention method, administered in two shots over six months. The vaccine is recommended for travellers to areas with high hepatitis A rates and certain high-risk groups.
- Rabies – Rabies, a fatal viral illness, is primarily transmitted through the saliva of infected animals. Prevention centers on vaccination, with post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) necessary after possible exposure and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) recommended for individuals with increased risk, such as travellers.
- Hepatitis B – Hepatitis B is a serious liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus, transmitted through blood, sexual contact, or from mother to child during birth. It can become chronic, leading to liver failure or cancer. The hepatitis B vaccine, given as a series of injections, effectively prevents this infection.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are preventable diseases that require a proactive approach through vaccination. The MMR vaccine, given in two doses, is a powerful tool in stopping the transmission of these viruses. Ensuring widespread vaccination coverage is essential to protect vulnerable populations and prevent outbreaks.
Dengue and Zika are two mosquito-borne infections found in Curacao. Repellent and netting is key to avoid the viruses. Women should take extra precautions as Zika can cause birth defects in children.
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 Curacao
Prevent Bug Bites in Curacao
Prevent bug bites by covering up and using insect repellents with DEET or picaridin. If bitten, wash the bite, resist scratching, and soothe with hydrocortisone or antihistamines. Seek urgent care for severe reactions.
Food and Water Safety in Curacao
When abroad, ensure food safety by avoiding street vendors, practicing hand hygiene, and opting for thoroughly cooked dishes. Choose bottled or canned drinks with intact seals. To prevent travellers’ diarrhea, maintain hand hygiene, avoid raw foods, and dine at trustworthy restaurants.
Infections To Be Aware of in Curacao
- Dengue – Dengue fever, transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, significantly impacts global health, affecting up to 400 million people yearly. Without specific antiviral treatments, prevention through avoiding mosquito bites is key. Repellents and nettings are recommended.
- Zika – Zika, transmitted by infected mosquitoes and through sexual contact, can result in birth defects. Preventing Zika involves using insect repellent, safe sexual practices, and eliminating mosquito breeding sites.
Do I Need a Visa for Curacao?
With a valid passport, no visa is needed for business or tourism stays under 30 days. All passports must be valid for at least 3 months past the expected time of stay.
Curacao Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Curacao? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | ||
| Vaccinations | |
|
Sources: Embassy of Curacao and Canadian Travel and Tourism
Travellers may need proof of onward travel within six months of arrival to enter Curacao.
Visit the Canadian Travel and Tourism website for more information on entry and exit requirements.
What Is the Climate Like in Curacao?
Curacao is a tropical island, located close to the equator. Its weather is usually warm, dry, and sunny year-round, with little seasonal change.
Curacao’s average temperature is around 30. The warmest month of the year is generally September, where temperatures can reach 37 degrees. Even in January, the coldest month, it may reach 32 degrees.
The rainy season lasts from October to February. But, rains are still rare with annual totals under 50 centimetres. Brief nighttime rainfall is common and usually clears by morning.
How Safe Is Curacao?
Curacao is generally safe, but it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and use common sense. Don’t show off your valuables or walk alone at night.
Stay in secure accommodations, be careful with money and follow local laws and customs. Keep up-to-date on current events and stay healthy by drinking safe water and using sunscreen.
By following these tips, travellers can have a fun and safe trip to Curacao.
Snorkeling and Scuba Diving in Curacao
Avoid an Embarrassing Stop
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While beaches are a big attraction in Curacao, the islands coral reefs are a must-see. By snorkeling or scuba diving, you can experience the underwater world of these reefs and tropical fish.
Curacao has over 40 dive areas, each with its own unique attractions. Certified dive operators that can help you arrange your dive.
For those who would prefer to enjoy the sea life from dry ground, the Sea Aquarium in Curacao offers an excellent alternative. All the animals live in a special lagoons that mimics their natural environments. It even allows the animals to be in contact with the ocean by pumping in fresh seawater.
What Should I Pack for Curacao?
Before your trip, make sure you have everything you’ll need in Curacao.
- Sunscreen – In such a sunny, tropical destination, the sun can be stronger than you might expect. Stock up on sunscreen to prevent painful sunburns.
- Bug Repellent – Mosquitoes and other insects can carry dangerous diseases. Make every effort to prevent bites by using plenty of bug spray.
- Light, Loose Clothing – Curacao can get hot, especially in the summer, and it rarely gets cold. Bring plenty of airy, summer clothing to keep yourself as cool as possible.
- Snorkel Gear – If you have your own, consider bringing it. This will save money and can help make sure you have exactly what you need.
Canadian Consulate in Curacao
Curacao does not have a Canadian government office. Any consular assistance or other inquiries can be handled by the Embassy of Canada in Colombia.
Embassy of Canada in Colombia
Cra. 7, No. 114-33, Piso 14,
Bogotá, D.C. Colombia
Tel.: (57-601) 657-9800
Ready to start your next journey? Call us at or book online now!
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Curacao
“Had a great experience – knowledgeable and friendly nurse, explained everything for Curacao thoroughly and was very personable.”
“Very knowledgeable and thorough review of the vaccinations required for my trip to Curacao. Made recommendations, outlined risks of opting out of certain vaccines, but were not overly pushy. A good experience.”
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