Travel Vaccines and Advice for Saint Helena
Saint Helena is a British overseas territory located in the South Atlantic Ocean. It is a volcanic island.
It is small, only being 47 square miles and has a population over 4,500.
The official language of Saint Helena is English.
Saint Helena is most famous for being the island that Napoleon was sent to exile and for being one of the more remote islands in the world.
The capital of Saint Helena is Jamestown and is the largest city on the island.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Saint Helena?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Saint Helena
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Saint Helena?
What Is the Climate Like in Saint Helena?
How Safe Is Saint Helena?
Napoleon On Saint Helena
What Should I Take to Saint Helena?
U.S. Embassy in Saint Helena
Do I Need Vaccines for Saint Helena?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Saint Helena. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Saint Helena: typhoid, hepatitis A, polio, rabies, hepatitis B, influenza, COVID-19, 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 travelers. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travelers to any destination. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travelers and those who may come in contact with animals. - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Recommended for travelers 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 Saint Helena |
||
| 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 travelers. |
| Polio | Food & Water | Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travelers to any destination. |
| Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travelers and those who may come in contact with animals. |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Recommended for travelers to most regions. |
Routine Vaccinations for Saint Helena |
||
| 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 fever, caused by Salmonella Typhi, is a serious illness transmitted through contaminated food and water. Prevention strategies include vaccination as well as practicing strict hygiene and safe food handling.
- Hepatitis A – Hepatitis A is an infectious liver disease caused by the hepatitis A virus, often spread through contaminated food or water, or via direct contact with someone infected. It leads to liver inflammation, potentially impairing its function, and manifests as symptoms like tiredness, stomach pain, nausea, and yellowing of the skin or eyes. The vaccine for hepatitis A offers robust protection against this virus. It is typically given in two doses over a six-month period and is advised for those traveling to regions with higher risk or for people more likely to come into contact with the virus.
- Rabies – Preventing rabies involves avoiding contact with infected animals and ensuring timely vaccination. The rabies vaccine is a critical tool, offering protection through post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) and preemptive vaccination for high-risk individuals like travelers.
- Hepatitis B – Hepatitis B, a liver infection, is transmitted through contact with infected bodily fluids. Prevention includes practicing safe behaviors, but the cornerstone of protection is hepatitis B vaccination. This vaccine activates the immune system, generating antibodies that offer potent and enduring defense against the virus.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are contagious diseases transmitted via respiratory droplets and touch. Preventing these illnesses is primarily achieved through vaccination, using the MMR vaccine. It’s administered in two doses and provides immunity against all three viruses.
Basic medical care can be provided at a clinic in Jamestown. Serious cases will be air-lifted out.
For medical emergencies with on Saint Helena, call 911.
To find out more about these vaccines, see our vaccinations page. Ready to travel safely? Book your appointment either call or schedule online now.
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Saint Helena
Prevent Bug Bites in Saint Helena
Protect yourself from bug bites by wearing long clothing and using CDC-recommended repellents like DEET or picaridin. Avoid bug-prone areas during peak hours to reduce the risk.
Food and Water Safety in Saint Helena
When traveling, prioritize food safety with CDC’s advice: consume fully cooked foods, avoid raw seafood, and pick clean eateries. Opt for bottled drinks, exercise caution with ice, and practice responsible alcohol consumption. Prevent travelers’ diarrhea by maintaining good hand hygiene and avoiding street food in unsanitary conditions.
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Saint Helena?
A visa is not required if you are a U.S. citizen traveling to Saint Helena on a non-long-term basis. The exact term for your visit will be determined by immigration authorities upon arrival, but is usually the length of stay as long as it is less than 90 days.
Saint Helena Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Saint Helena? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | ||
| Vaccinations | ||
Sources: Embassy of Saint Helena and U.S. State Department
What Is the Climate Like in Saint Helena?
Saint Helena is a remote island with a mild and subtropical climate. The capital, Jamestown, has mild temperatures all year round with little rainfall except between July and September. Longwood House, where Napoleon Bonaparte lived in exile, is cooler and more humid than Jamestown with higher rainfall between May and August.
Diana’s Peak National Park, located in the center of the island, has a cooler and wetter climate due to its higher elevation. Sandy Bay Beach, one of the few beaches on the island, is cooler and wetter than Jamestown with higher rainfall between December and March.
Be sure to check weather websites or apps for up-to-date information.
How Safe Is Saint Helena?
Saint Helena is a remote island in the South Atlantic Ocean. It is important to be respectful of the local culture and customs while visiting. If you plan on hiking or exploring the island, make sure to wear proper shoes and bring a map and plenty of water.
The weather can be unpredictable, so it is a good idea to check the forecast before going out. Protect yourself from the strong sun by wearing sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. It’s also important to be careful when swimming or participating in water activities. The ocean can have strong currents and rough seas.
Take basic security precautions such as locking your doors and windows at night and not leaving your valuables unattended.
By following these tips, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Saint Helena.
Napoleon On Saint Helena
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Longwood House is a historic building in Saint Helena that was once the home of Napoleon Bonaparte during his exile. It is now a popular tourist destination that offers a glimpse into the history and culture of the island. Visitors can explore the house and its many artifacts, including personal belongings and furniture of Napoleon. The house also has several museums that showcase the island’s history and culture.
Tour guides are available to lead visitors and share their knowledge about the house and the island. Longwood House also hosts events throughout the year such as music concerts, art exhibitions and cultural festivals that visitors can enjoy.
Whether you are interested in history, architecture, or culture, a visit to Longwood House is a great experience that offers something for everyone.
What Should I Take to Saint Helena?
If you’re planning a trip to Saint Helena, there are a few things you should pack. It’s best to bring light and comfortable clothing like shorts, t-shirts, and light dresses. The island is hilly, so you should also bring sturdy walking shoes.
Since there is a lot of sunshine on the island, it is important to bring sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. Mosquitoes can be a problem on the island, so bring insect repellent to avoid bites. Since the weather can be unpredictable, it’s a good idea to pack a raincoat.
Don’t forget to pack a swimsuit to enjoy the beautiful beaches and a camera to capture the stunning scenery.
Saint Helena uses British plugs, be sure to bring a travel adapter. It’s important to bring cash since the island is a cash-based society, and there are no ATMs.
If you take any medication, bring enough for your trip since the availability of medications on the island may be limited.
U.S. Embassy in Saint Helena
All Americans visiting Saint Helena should register online with the U.S. Department of State before departure. This will inform the office of your travel plans within the country and will allow them to reach out in the case of an emergency or evacuation.
There is no U.S. embassy in St. Helena, but it is served by the embassy in Barbados.
U.S. Embassy Bridgetown
Wildey Business Park
St. Michael BB 14006
Barbados, W.I.
Phone: (246) 227-4000
If you have any questions about traveling to St. Helena or are wondering what shots you may need for your trip, schedule an appointment with your local Passport Health travel medicine clinic. Call us at or book online now and protect yourself today.
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Saint Helena
“I’m so glad we went to this clinic. It was very educational and helpful. I will recommend this clinic to friends and family members who are traveling to Saint Helena.”
“I went into this thinking it was a small walk in clinic that is like any other walk in medical clinic. It’s not. The staff provided a detailed description of health issues AND current security concerns in Saint Helena. Very knowledgeable and laid back staff that is easy to talk to.”
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