Summer is here, and it’s time to explore the world. When travelling to places like Cuba, it is always important to ensure that you have taken the proper precautions to help prevent travellers’ illnesses. Here are some of the most common questions travellers have, including vaccine recommendations of Cuba.
What vaccines do Canadians need for Cuba?
Cuba’s vaccine recommendations are similar to other countries in the Caribbean. Cuba is a tropical climate, which can pose different risks for infection and disease.
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for Cuba
| Vaccines For | How It Spreads | Recommended For |
| Hepatitis A | Food & Water | For most travellers (especially for those staying or visiting smaller cities/rural areas). Typhoid injection can be given from 2 years of age |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Bodily Fluids | All travellers |
| Typhoid | Food & Water | For most travellers (especially for those staying or visiting smaller cities/rural areas).Typhoid injection can be given from 2 years of age |
| Yellow Fever | Mosquitoes | For travellers older than 9 months old coming from a country with Yellow Fever transmission risks, including layovers from at-risk countries |
| Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | All travellers (including children) especially if your trip involves being around dogs or wildlife including campers, veterinarians, animal handlers, visitors to rural areas |
Routine Vaccinations For Cuba
| Vaccines For | How It Spreads | Recommended For |
| Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis (Tdap) | Wounds & Airborne | All travellers without previous allergic reactions |
| Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) | Saliva, respiratory droplets, direct contact of bodily fluids | Available for anyone unvaccinated and from 12 months of age as part of the routine vaccine covered by OHIP |
| Polio | Food & Water | All travellers are advised to be up to date with their immunization. |
| Chickenpox (Varicella) | Direct Contact & Airborne | All unvaccinated travellers or for travellers who never experienced chicken pox |
| Shingles | Direct Contact | Travellers 50 years or older and travellers who have a history of chicken pox illness |
| Influenza | Airborne | Travellers from 6 months to 65+ years old. Vaccines change each year, check with your medical professional for the latest information. |
Is it safe to travel to Cuba?
Cuba is a safe country to visit. They have a good healthcare system and methods in place to help spread illness and disease. It is still important however to learn about what vaccines are needed for Cuba before you leave to ensure you are fully protected.
Does Cuba still have COVID restrictions?
Under Cuba COVID vaccine requirements, proof of vaccination is no longer necessary to enter the country, however, it is still advisable to receive a vaccine. If you are experiencing fever or other COVID symptoms while travelling, visit a doctor immediately.
Do I need to take Dukoral for Cuba?
It is advisable to take Dukoral when visiting Cuba. Due to the high risk of contracting illness through food and water, it is important to know the vaccines needed for Cuba. Some food and water-borne illness can cause serious diarrhea, which can lead to dehydration and even death if not treated.
Do I need yellow fever vaccine for Cuba?
All travellers to Cuba from yellow fever-risk countries must show proof of vaccination for yellow fever with a valid yellow fever certificate. The same rule applies to people who have come to Cuba by way of a yellow fever-risk country. The certificate approved by a Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre is valid for a lifetime if the traveller received a full dose of the yellow fever vaccine. Failing to show a valid certificate could lead to refusal of entry or quarantine.
Is it safe to drink water in Cuba?
It is not recommended to drink water in Cuba. Instead, carry a water bottle with you of fresh water, so you can stay hydrated and reduce the chances of developing a serious illness.
Contact Us to Learn More About Cuba Vaccine Requirements
By following our travel health tips, including staying up to date with necessary vaccines, you can protect yourself from potential health risks and have peace of mind during your time in Cuba. Our clinic offers a range of recommended vaccines tailored specifically for this destination, taking into account the prevalent diseases and local conditions.
Remember, proactive measures such as proper vaccination, practicing good hygiene, and taking precautions specific to Cuba will significantly reduce the likelihood of encountering any health-related issues during your travels. At ABC Travel Clinic, we strive to empower you with the knowledge and tools necessary to make informed decisions about your health while exploring the wonders of Cuba.
Trust us as your reliable partner in ensuring a healthy and memorable trip to Cuba. Contact ABC Travel Clinic today to schedule your travel health consultation and start your vacation with confidence!
References:
1CDC. “Cuba: Traveler’s Health.” CDC Travelers’ Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2023, https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/cuba.
