You’re all set for your Aruba adventure – sun, sand, and crystal-clear waters await! But before you go, it’s important to take a quick look at your health and safety prep. Don’t worry, though – Aruba is a very safe destination when it comes to health, and with a few simple tips, you’ll be ready to relax and enjoy the island without a care in the world. Here’s everything you need to know about vaccinations and staying healthy in Aruba.
Vaccinations: What You Need (and Don’t Need)
Good news! For most travelers, there are no mandatory vaccinations required to visit Aruba. However, it’s always smart to make sure you’re up-to-date on routine vaccines before any international trip. Here’s a quick checklist:
- Routine Vaccines: Make sure you’re up to date on routine vaccines like measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella (chickenpox), polio, and your yearly flu shot.
- Hepatitis A: The CDC recommends that travelers to Aruba consider getting the Hepatitis A vaccine, just to be extra cautious. This viral infection can sometimes be spread through food or water, though Aruba’s hygiene standards are generally very high.
- Hepatitis B: If you’re planning an extended stay or expect to engage in activities that could expose you to blood or bodily fluids (like medical procedures or certain adventure sports), the Hepatitis B vaccine is also recommended.
No need to worry about yellow fever or malaria – Aruba is completely free of these diseases!
Now that you know vaccinations aren’t a major concern, let’s talk about a few simple health tips to keep you feeling your best while you enjoy your island getaway.
1. Sun Protection Is Key!
Aruba is blessed with year-round sunshine, but that means you’ll need to be extra careful about sun exposure. Here are a few tips to protect yourself:
- Wear sunscreen: A high-SPF, broad-spectrum sunscreen is a must. Apply it generously, and don’t forget to reapply every two hours, especially after swimming.
- Bring a hat and sunglasses: Keep that face and those eyes shaded while you’re out exploring.
- Stay hydrated: The tropical heat can sneak up on you, so drink plenty of water throughout the day to avoid dehydration. The tap water in Aruba is safe to drink, so keep your bottle filled!
2. Mosquito Protection
While Aruba doesn’t have major mosquito-borne illnesses like malaria, it’s still a good idea to protect yourself from bites, especially in the early morning or evening hours. Here’s how:
- Use insect repellent: A repellent containing DEET or Picaridin will help keep those pesky mosquitoes away.
- Wear light, long-sleeved clothing: If you’re exploring nature or heading out at dawn or dusk, covering up can help prevent bites.
3. Sea Safety
Aruba’s beaches are world-class, but it’s important to be mindful of a few safety tips while swimming:
- Stay in designated swimming areas: These are usually marked by buoys and are the safest spots for a dip.
- Watch for strong currents: Certain beaches may have strong undertows or currents. Always pay attention to local signs and lifeguard advice.
- Rinse off after swimming: Aruba’s salty seawater is wonderful, but rinsing off after a swim will help keep your skin and hair happy.
4. Eating and Drinking
One of the best parts of visiting Aruba is indulging in the local cuisine! Luckily, the food and water in Aruba are generally very safe, so you can relax and enjoy the island’s delicious offerings. Still, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Tap water is safe: Aruba’s tap water is some of the purest in the world, thanks to the island’s desalination plant. Feel free to drink it without any concerns.
- Eat at reputable places: Whether you’re dining at a restaurant or a local food stall, Aruba’s food safety standards are high. Just make sure to choose clean, reputable places, especially when trying street food.
5. Local Healthcare
If you do happen to need medical attention while in Aruba, you’re in good hands. Aruba has a modern healthcare system, with the Dr. Horacio Oduber Hospital in Oranjestad providing high-quality care for both locals and visitors. Many doctors in Aruba are trained internationally, and most speak fluent English, so communication won’t be an issue.
- Pharmacies: There are numerous pharmacies (called boticas) throughout the island, where you can easily find over-the-counter medication for minor ailments like sunburns or upset stomachs.
- Travel insurance: While healthcare in Aruba is top-notch, it’s always a good idea to have travel insurance that covers any unexpected medical needs during your stay.
The Bottom Line: Health and Safety in Aruba
With no mandatory vaccines and excellent healthcare standards, Aruba is a very safe and healthy destination for travelers. Just make sure you’re up to date on your routine shots, bring plenty of sunscreen, and drink that pure, refreshing tap water! By following these simple health tips, you’ll be all set to enjoy a carefree, sun-filled vacation on the beautiful island of Aruba.