Travel Vaccines and Advice for Martinique
Martinique is a small, French-speaking Caribbean island. This nation combines the splendor of Europe with the thriving local Caribbean culture. Surrounded by sprawling beaches and rich rain forests, it also has delicious meals and unique shopping.
Fort-de-France showcases the various marrying of different cultures and experiences in Martinique. The local architecture is colonial, but surrounded by tropical plant life and beaches. Fort-de-France also boasts some of the most popular restaurants in Martinique.
Another popular destination in Martinique is Saint-Pierre. This town is a gateway to Martinique’s wildlife and natural terrain, such as Mount Pelèe, a mountain with a volcano.
Martinique is a great destination for travellers wanting to experience a bit of everything.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Martinique?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Martinique
Do I Need a Visa for Martinique?
What Is the Climate Like in Martinique?
How Safe Is Martinique?
Taking a Dip Into Safety in Martinique
What Should I Pack for Martinique?
Canadian Embassy in Martinique
Do I Need Vaccines for Martinique?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Martinique. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Martinique: 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 Martinique |
||
| 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 Martinique |
||
| 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, a potentially life-threatening illness caused by Salmonella Typhi, spreads through contaminated food and water in areas with poor sanitation. To prevent it, practice good hygiene and safe food and water precautions.
- Hepatitis A – Hepatitis A spreads through contaminated food, water, and close contact. Protect yourself by getting vaccinated with the hepatitis A vaccine and maintaining proper hygiene. Vaccination is a critical step in preventing this contagious liver infection, according to health authorities.
- Rabies – Rabies is a deadly virus transmitted through animal bites, affecting the nervous system. The rabies vaccine, given before or after potential exposure, prevents the virus from developing into active disease. Pre-exposure vaccination is recommended for high-risk groups like travellers, while post-exposure shots are crucial after suspected rabies exposure.
- 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 highly contagious diseases with potentially severe consequences. Preventing their transmission is possible through vaccination with the MMR vaccine. This two-dose vaccine not only safeguards individuals but also helps create herd immunity, reducing the risk of outbreaks within communities.
Dengue does pose a threat to travellers to Martinique. This mosquito-borne disease is the leading cause of febrile illness among travellers to the region. Make sure you’re protected with mosquito repellent and netting.
Visit our vaccinations page to learn more. Travel safely with Passport Health and schedule your appointment today by calling or book online now.
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Martinique
Prevent Bug Bites in Martinique
Shield yourself from bug bites with proper attire and EPA-approved repellents such as DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Safeguard your sleep area with bed nets and screens. In case of bug bites, clean the area, resist scratching, and utilize over-the-counter solutions while seeking professional assistance for severe reactions.
Food and Water Safety in Martinique
Stay healthy overseas by favoring cooked and hot dishes, reputable eateries, and practicing good hand hygiene. Stick to bottled or sealed beverages and use caution with tap water. Enjoy hot drinks and alcohol responsibly. To steer clear of travellers’ diarrhea, follow these strategies: eat safe foods, drink treated water, maintain hand hygiene, consider probiotics, and be discerning about local cuisine.
Infections To Be Aware of in Martinique
- African Tick-Bite Fever – African Tick-Bite Fever (ATBF) is transmitted through tick bites. Prevention involves proper clothing, tick repellents, and regular tick inspections. If visiting endemic regions, consult healthcare professionals to further safeguard against ATBF.
- Dengue – Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne illness with symptoms ranging from mild to severe, including high fever and pain. The PHAC emphasizes prevention through avoiding mosquito bites by using repellents and removing standing water. Treatment focuses on symptom relief and hydration, avoiding certain pain relievers that can worsen bleeding risks.
- Zika – Zika, a mosquito-borne virus, is primarily spread through mosquito bites and can cause serious health issues. Prevention strategies include using mosquito repellent and practicing safe sex.
Do I Need a Visa For Martinique?
A passport which is valid for 3 months from the expected departure date is required to enter the country. A tourist visa is not required for stays up to 90 days but a professional visa is required.
Martinique Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Martinique? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | |
|
| Vaccinations | |
|
Sources: Embassy of Martinique and Canadian Travel and Tourism
Proof of onward or return travel may be required for entry.
Visit the Canadian Travel and Tourism website for more information on entry and exit requirements.
What Is the Climate Like in Martinique?
Martinique is a tropical island in the Caribbean that is warm and humid all year round, with temperatures averaging around 25 degrees. There are two seasons on the island – a rainy season from June to October and a dry season from December to April.
The capital city of Martinique is Fort-de-France, and it experiences temperatures between 25 and 30 with a rainy season from June to October and a dry season from December to April.
Les Trois-Îlets and Sainte-Anne are popular beach towns located on the south coast of Martinique, with temperatures ranging from 25 to 30. They both have rainy seasons from June to October and dry seasons from December to April.
Le Diamant is a coastal town on the south-west coast of Martinique that experiences similar temperatures and seasons to Les Trois-Îlets and Sainte-Anne.
It’s important to check the weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly as weather patterns can vary.
How Safe Is Martinique?
If you’re planning to visit Martinique, there are some things you can do to stay safe. Pay attention to your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night. Be careful when driving on the island’s narrow and winding roads.
Protect yourself from the sun by wearing sunscreen, a hat, and light clothing. It’s important to avoid drugs, as they are illegal in Martinique and can result in severe penalties. French is the official language of the island, so learning some basic phrases can help you communicate with locals.
Be respectful of the environment by not littering or damaging natural areas. By using common sense and taking reasonable precautions, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Martinique.
Taking a Dip Into Safety in Martinique
Avoid an Embarrassing Stop
Over 70% of travellers
will have diarrhea.
Get protected with Passport Health’s
travellers’ diarrhea kit!
Martinique has many water-based activities. Whether it’s taking a swim or jumping on the back of a jet ski, the island has almost any adventure.
Dipping your toes into Martinique’s waters is a great reason to visit. But, you need to be safe. Make sure you and your family know how to swim before partaking in any serious water activities.
Extreme water sports always pose various safety risks, such as injuries or even death. Before you dive into any activity, be sure to use a reliable, safe company. Make sure they are using the most up-to-date equipment and following safety protocols.
What Should I Pack for Martinique?
Be sure to bring this important travel items with you on your trip to Martinique:
- Insect Repellent – Mosquitoes and sand fleas are common in Martinique. Their bites are uncomfortable and can carry disease. Packing insect repellent will keep you safe and health while there.
- Sunscreen – Martinique is a hot island, and sunburn is common. Make sure you pack sunscreen with at least 35 SPF. This will help prevent painful sunburn and short or long term skin damage from sun exposure.
- Light, Airy Clothing – Since the climate on Martinique is tropical, the weather is often dry, humid and warm. Pack thin clothing to promote airflow to your body while on the island. This will keep you comfortable and can prevent heat stroke or overheating.
- Swimsuits – Martinique is an ideal location for beach and water lovers. If you hope to take a dip on your vacation, don’t forget to pack your swimsuit. Packing one or two extra might also help make sure you’re always prepared for any water adventures.
- Euros – The common currency in Martinique is the Euro. Make sure you bring the currency you, or set aside money to exchange into Euros.
Canadian Embassy in Martinique
Martinique does not have an embassy on the island. For help and information, contact the Canadian Embassy in France:
Embassy of Canada in France
130, rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré
75008 Paris, France
Phone: +33 (0)1 44 43 29 02
Ready to start your next journey? Call us at or book online now!
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Martinique
“Passport Health was very throughout in the consult appointment for my trip to Martinique. They provided me with all the medication and vaccinations right in the office and supplied me with a handbook for the destination to where I was travelling to with all kinds of useful information. I would definitely return before going to any foreign country.”
“The nurse is knowledgeable in what is required for travellers to Martinique. We came away confident that we are fully covered for our trip and have recommended her to the rest of the group that is travelling with us.”
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