Antigua and Barbuda
Travel Destination – Antigua and Barbuda
Antigua and Barbuda is a Caribbean island nation known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs and historic harbours. Antigua is particularly popular for sailing, snorkelling, diving and beach holidays, while Barbuda offers quieter beaches, lagoons and opportunities to experience its natural landscapes and wildlife.
Whether you are planning a relaxing resort stay or exploring the islands through outdoor and water-based activities, preparing for travel can help you stay well. Health considerations include mosquito-borne infections such as dengue, chikungunya and Zika, food- and water-related illnesses, sun and heat exposure, and safety during road and water activities. Reviewing your vaccinations and itinerary with a travel doctor before departure can help ensure you are appropriately prepared.
Health Risks
Pre-travel preparation
Before travelling to Antigua and Barbuda, see a travel doctor several weeks before departure to review your itinerary, planned activities and individual health needs. Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date, including measles, mumps, rubella, tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis, polio, chickenpox and influenza, with COVID-19 vaccination kept current according to Australian recommendations. Depending on your itinerary, accommodation and activities, hepatitis A, hepatitis B and typhoid vaccination may also be recommended.
Allow enough time for vaccinations to take effect before departure and discuss any medical conditions, pregnancy plans, allergies or regular medicines with your doctor. Carry enough prescription medication for the entire trip, preferably in its original packaging, and obtain comprehensive travel insurance covering medical treatment, hospitalisation and medical evacuation.
Insect avoidance
Mosquitoes in Antigua and Barbuda can transmit infections including dengue, chikungunya and Zika. These infections can cause fever, headache, muscle and joint pain, rash and other symptoms, while Zika is of particular concern during pregnancy because infection can affect the developing baby. Some mosquito species responsible for these infections are active during the day, so protection should not be limited to the evening.
Apply an effective insect repellent to exposed skin and reapply as directed, particularly after swimming or sweating. Wear loose-fitting clothing that covers the arms and legs when practical, and consider clothing treated with insect repellent. Stay in accommodation with intact window and door screens or air conditioning where possible, and use mosquito nets when appropriate. Take particular care around dawn, dusk and in shaded or humid areas where mosquitoes are more active.
Food and water hygiene
Contaminated food or water can cause gastroenteritis and other gastrointestinal infections in Antigua and Barbuda, including bacterial, viral and parasitic illnesses. These infections commonly cause diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps and sometimes fever, and can be particularly disruptive during travel through dehydration and loss of electrolytes.
Choose food that is thoroughly cooked and served hot, and take care with raw or undercooked meat, seafood, eggs and foods that have been sitting at room temperature. Wash your hands with soap and water before eating and after using the bathroom, and take care with food from informal establishments where hygiene and temperature control may be less consistent. Drink bottled, treated or otherwise safe water if the source of tap water is uncertain, and avoid ice made from potentially unsafe water.
If diarrhoea or vomiting occurs, maintaining adequate fluid intake is the most important measure. Oral rehydration solutions can replace the water and electrolytes lost through gastrointestinal illness. Seek medical attention if symptoms are severe or persistent, particularly with bloody diarrhoea, high fever, significant abdominal pain or dehydration.
Rabies prevention
Rabies is a viral infection affecting the nervous system and is usually fatal once symptoms develop. It spreads through the saliva of infected animals, most commonly through bites or scratches, but exposure can also occur when saliva contacts broken skin or the eyes, mouth or other mucous membranes. Dogs are the main source of human rabies infections globally, although bats and other mammals can also carry the virus.
When travelling to Antigua and Barbuda, avoid approaching, feeding or handling unfamiliar animals, including dogs, cats and bats, even if they appear healthy. Travellers planning animal-related activities, spending extended periods in remote areas or with limited access to medical care should discuss pre-travel rabies vaccination with a travel doctor.
After any bite, scratch or saliva exposure, immediately wash the area thoroughly with soap and running water and seek prompt medical assessment. Post-exposure treatment may still be needed after vaccination, so do not delay care.
Our Travel Doctors
Our fully qualified doctors have an interest in travel medicine and immunisations. And they know travel. Their expert advice will be tailored for you, your travel companions and your trip.
Which shots do I need for Antigua and Barbuda?
Hepatitis A
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Hepatitis A is a viral infection that affects the liver and is usually spread through contaminated food or water. It can cause fever, nausea, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, dark urine and jaundice, although some people have few or no symptoms. Illness can last for several weeks and may be more severe in adults.
Hepatitis A vaccination is recommended for many travellers to Antigua and Barbuda, particularly those staying for longer periods or travelling outside established tourist settings. Discuss vaccination with a travel doctor before departure, particularly if you have chronic liver disease or other health condition
Typhoid
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Typhoid fever is a bacterial infection caused by Salmonella Typhi, usually spread through contaminated food or water. It can cause prolonged fever, headache, abdominal pain, diarrhoea or constipation and, without treatment, serious complications.
Typhoid vaccination may be considered for travellers spending extended periods in settings where sanitation or food hygiene may be less reliable, including rural areas or when visiting friends and relatives. Vaccination does not replace careful food and water hygiene.
Rabies
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Rabies is a viral infection affecting the nervous system and is usually fatal once symptoms develop. It spreads through the saliva of infected animals, most commonly through bites or scratches, but exposure can also occur when saliva contacts broken skin or the eyes, mouth or other mucous membranes. Dogs are the main source of human rabies infections globally, although bats and other mammals can also carry the virus.
When travelling to Antigua and Barbuda, avoid approaching, feeding or handling unfamiliar animals, including dogs, cats and bats, even if they appear healthy. Travellers planning animal-related activities, spending extended periods in remote areas or with limited access to medical care should discuss pre-travel rabies vaccination with a travel doctor.
After any bite, scratch or saliva exposure, immediately wash the area thoroughly with soap and running water and seek prompt medical assessment. Post-exposure treatment may still be needed after vaccination, so do not delay care.
Mpox
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Mpox (formerly monkeypox) is a viral infection that can cause a rash or sores, fever, swollen lymph nodes, headache, muscle aches and tiredness. It spreads mainly through close physical contact with an infected person, including contact with skin lesions, bodily fluids or contaminated materials.
Most people recover within a few weeks, although complications can occur. Mpox vaccination is recommended for some people with particular exposure risks rather than for all travellers. Discuss your individual risk and vaccination needs with a travel doctor before departure.
Measles
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Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that causes fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes and a widespread rash. It can lead to serious complications including pneumonia and inflammation of the brain.
Measles continues to circulate internationally, so all travellers born during or since 1966 should ensure they have received two documented doses of measles-containing vaccine. Check your Australian Immunisation Register before travelling and discuss any missing doses with a travel doctor.
Routine vaccinations
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Before travelling to Antigua and Barbuda, ensure your routine vaccinations are up to date. These include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis, hepatitis B, and polio. Annual influenza vaccination is recommended, as well as COVID-19 vaccination as per current Australian recommendations.
Routine vaccines protect against infections that continue to circulate internationally and can be particularly important when travelling through airports, staying in crowded accommodation or participating in large gatherings. Check your Australian Immunisation Register and discuss any missing or overdue vaccinations with a travel doctor before departure.
Antigua and Barbuda
Other health risks in Antigua and Barbuda
Gastroenteritis
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Gastroenteritis is inflammation of the stomach and intestines, usually caused by viruses, bacteria or parasites and commonly spread through contaminated food or water. It can cause diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps and sometimes fever, with symptoms often developing within a few days of exposure. Risk is higher when food is inadequately cooked or stored or when hand and food hygiene are poor.
Most cases improve with adequate fluids and oral rehydration. Seek medical attention if diarrhoea is severe or persistent, particularly if there is blood in the stool, high fever, significant abdominal pain or signs of dehydration. High standards of food and water hygiene help reduce the risk of gastroenteritis.
Dengue, chikungunya and Zika
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Dengue, chikungunya and Zika are mosquito-borne viral infections that can occur in Antigua and Barbuda. Dengue typically causes fever, headache, muscle and joint pain and sometimes a rash, while severe dengue can cause bleeding and organ complications. Chikungunya commonly causes fever and marked joint pain, which can persist for weeks or longer. Zika is often mild or asymptomatic but can cause serious complications during pregnancy, including congenital abnormalities. Zika can also be transmitted sexually.
Mosquitoes that transmit these infections can bite during the day, particularly around sunrise and sunset. Consistent insect-bite protection is therefore important throughout the day, including when relaxing around beaches, resorts and outdoor dining areas.
Tuberculosis
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Tuberculosis (TB) is a bacterial infection that usually affects the lungs and spreads through the air when someone with infectious pulmonary TB coughs, speaks or sings. Symptoms can include a persistent cough, fever, night sweats, fatigue and unexplained weight loss.
The risk to short-term travellers is generally associated with prolonged or close contact with someone who has infectious TB. Travellers spending extended periods in healthcare, humanitarian or community settings may have greater exposure. Anyone who develops a persistent cough or other concerning symptoms after travel should tell their doctor about their travel history.
Leptospirosis
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Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection spread through water or soil contaminated with urine from infected animals, particularly rodents. Infection can occur when contaminated water enters the body through cuts, broken skin or the eyes, nose or mouth. Risk can increase after heavy rainfall or flooding and during activities such as swimming, hiking or freshwater sports.
Symptoms can include sudden fever, headache, muscle aches, chills, nausea and vomiting. Most people recover with treatment, but severe infection can cause jaundice, kidney or liver failure, meningitis and other serious complications. Seek medical attention if you develop a fever or flu-like illness after freshwater or muddy-water exposure and mention your travel and activity history.
African tick-bite
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African tick-bite fever is a bacterial infection spread by infected ticks. It can cause fever, headache, muscle aches and a characteristic dark scab-like sore at the site of the tick bite, sometimes with swollen lymph nodes or a rash.
Risk is mainly associated with spending time outdoors in areas where ticks are present, particularly during hiking, camping and other activities involving vegetation or long grass. Check your skin and clothing for ticks after outdoor activities and use appropriate insect repellent and protective clothing.
Non-infectious conditions
Crime and unrest
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Antigua and Barbuda is generally a safe tourist destination, but crime can occur, including theft, burglary, robbery and sexual assault. Take particular care after dark, especially around isolated beaches, poorly lit areas and other quiet locations. Keep valuables secure, avoid displaying large amounts of cash or expensive jewellery, and use licensed taxis.
Demonstrations and large gatherings can occur and may disrupt transport or become unpredictable. Avoid protests and move away from areas where unrest develops. Monitor local news and follow advice from local authorities, particularly during major events or periods of severe weather.
Safety on the roads and elsewhere
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Road conditions vary between Antigua and Barbuda. Antigua's main roads are generally better maintained, while Barbuda has fewer paved roads. Potholes, narrow roads, blind corners, poor lighting, unmarked speed bumps, pedestrians and animals can create hazards, particularly at night. Drivers may also stop or change direction unexpectedly.
Antigua and Barbuda drives on the left. If hiring a vehicle, drive defensively and take extra care after dark. Taxis are not metered, so confirm the fare before travelling and use officially licensed taxis.
Deep vein thrombosis
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Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can occur during long-haul travel from Australia to Antigua and Barbuda, particularly when the journey involves multiple flights and prolonged periods of sitting. Remaining still for many hours can slow blood flow in the deep veins of the legs and increase the risk of clot formation.
Regularly move around the cabin, perform seated leg exercises such as ankle rotations and calf raises, and maintain adequate fluid intake. Travellers with risk factors such as previous blood clots, recent surgery, pregnancy, hormonal contraceptive use or significant overweight should discuss their individual risk and whether compression stockings are appropriate with a travel doctor.