Important Travel Health Information guide for St Barthélemy

Before traveling to St. Barthélemy (St. Barts), it’s important to check for any required vaccinations and health precautions. While there are no specific mandatory vaccinations for entry, it’s always best to stay updated on general travel health recommendations. Here are some guidelines:

In St. Barts (Saint Barthélemy), healthcare facilities are limited but well-equipped to handle general medical needs and emergencies. Here’s a guide to key medical facilities and hospitals on the island:

Main Hospital

1. Hôpital de Bruyn (St. Barthélemy Hospital)
   • Location: Gustavia
   • Services: Emergency care, general medicine, minor surgeries, and medium-stay services.
   • Facilities: 20 beds, including:
     • 10 for general medicine
     • 3 for surgery
     • 7 for medium stays
   • Special Features: Digital radiology services and emergency care 24/7.
   • Phone: +590 590 51 19 50​
   • Medical Secretariat Phone: +590 590 51 19 57​
   • Email: secretariat.direction@chsaintbarth.fr​

Clinics and Private Medical Practices

1. Dr. Bernard Husson (General Practitioner)
   • Location: Near Gustavia Port
   • Services: General medical consultations
   • Phone: +590 590 27 55 27 ​
2. Dr. Sophie Mazue-Naffah (General Practitioner)
   • Location: Gustavia
   • Services: On-appointment visits, including onboard yacht visits if required.
   • Phone: +590 590 27 66 07 ​

Pharmacies

1. Pharmacie de Gustavia
   • Location: Harbor front in Gustavia
   • Services: Prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, and health consultations.
   • Phone: +590 590 27 61 82 ​
2. Airport Pharmacy
   • Location: Near Gustaf III Airport
   • Services: Convenient for travelers requiring last-minute medical supplies.
   • Phone: +590 590 27 66 61 ​
     

Emergency Services

• Ambulance and Emergency Services: Dial 15 for medical emergencies.
• Medical Evacuations: For serious conditions, patients are typically airlifted to hospitals in Saint Martin, Guadeloupe, or Puerto Rico for specialized care.

Travel Health Advice

• St. Barts offers excellent general healthcare, but complex cases may require evacuation.
• It’s advisable to carry travel insurance that covers medical evacuations and hospital stays.

Recommended Vaccinations:

• Routine Vaccinations: Ensure that you are up-to-date on routine vaccinations such as:
  • Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR)
  • Diphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus (DPT)
  • Polio
  • Influenza
• Hepatitis A: Recommended for most travelers, as you can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in St. Barthélemy.
• Hepatitis B: Recommended for travelers who may have exposure to blood or body fluids, including sexual contact, medical procedures, or sharing needles.
• Typhoid: Recommended for travelers, especially if staying with friends or relatives, or visiting smaller cities or rural areas where exposure through food or water is more likely.

Health Precautions:

• Insect Bites: Protect yourself from mosquito bites, as they can spread diseases such as dengue, Zika, and chikungunya. Use insect repellent, wear long sleeves and pants, and stay in accommodations with window screens or air conditioning.
• Food and Water Safety:
  • Drink bottled or boiled water.
  • Avoid ice cubes made from tap water.
  • Eat food that is well-cooked and served hot.
  • Avoid raw or undercooked meat and seafood, and unpasteurized dairy products.
• Sun Protection:
  • Use sunscreen with a high SPF.
  • Wear hats and sunglasses.
  • Stay hydrated and avoid excessive sun exposure during peak hours.
• Travel Insurance:
  • Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers medical expenses, including emergency evacuation.
  • Ensure your regular health insurance covers you while abroad, or purchase additional coverage if necessary.

General Advice:

• Consult a Travel Health Specialist: Visit a travel health clinic or consult your healthcare provider 4-6 weeks before your trip to discuss your specific health needs and any additional vaccinations or precautions based on your health status and itinerary.
• Health Supplies: Pack a travel health kit with items like prescription medications, over-the-counter medicines, first aid supplies, and any other necessary health items.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, refer to the CDC or WHO websites, or consult your healthcare provider.