Travel Vaccines and Advice for Saint Martin
Saint Martin is a small island in the Caribbean Sea. The island is split into two separate nations: Sint Maarten (Dutch) and Saint Martin (French). This destination offers two different European influences blended with Caribbean flair.
Philipsburg, the capital of Dutch Sint Maarten, is a city lined with beaches and long boardwalks. Front Street is full of duty-free shops and casinos, and the boardwalk has many beachfront bars. The Saint Maarten Zoo is home to many different birds and even monkeys.
Marigot rests on the other side of the island, the capital of French Saint Martin. History and art lovers can visit Fort Louis, a French ruin that also offers hiking opportunities, and the Silk Cotton Grove Art Gallery. Adventurers can visit Loterie Farm, a treetop adventure park, and nature sanctuary.
Though there are two nations on the island, travel between them is free of restrictions. One can explore the island freely and entirely.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Saint Martin?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Saint Martin
Do I Need a Visa for Saint Martin?
What Is the Climate Like in Saint Martin?
How Safe Is Saint Martin?
Keeping Your Head Above Water in Saint Martin
What Should I Pack for Saint Martin?
U.S. Embassy in Saint Martin
Do I Need Vaccines for Saint Martin?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Saint Martin. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Saint Martin: typhoid, hepatitis A, polio, yellow fever, chikungunya, 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. - Yellow Fever –
Mosquito –
Required if traveling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. - Chikungunya –
Mosquito –
Few cases reported since 2016. Increased risk for those who may be in more rural areas. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
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 Martin |
||
| 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. |
| Yellow Fever | Mosquito | Required if traveling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. |
| Chikungunya | Mosquito | Few cases reported since 2016. Increased risk for those who may be in more rural areas. |
| Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | 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 Martin |
||
| 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 – Salmonella Typhi causes typhoid, a severe infection transmitted via contaminated food and water. Vaccination is recommended for travelers and those with elevated infection risks. Practicing proper hygiene and safe food handling can also reduce the likelihood of contracting typhoid.
- Hepatitis A – Hepatitis A spreads through contaminated food, water, and close contact. Protect yourself by getting vaccinated with the hepatitis A vaccine and maintaining proper hygiene. Vaccination is a critical step in preventing this contagious liver infection, according to health authorities.
- Chikungunya – Chikungunya, carried by Aedes mosquitoes, can be prevented through use of repellents, netting and vaccination.
- Rabies – Rabies, a lethal viral infection, is primarily transmitted through the saliva of infected animals. Vaccination is paramount for prevention, involving post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) for potential exposures and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for those at heightened risk, such as travelers.
- Hepatitis B – Hepatitis B prevention relies on vaccination as the most effective measure, recommended for all travelers and critical for healthcare workers. Practicing safe sex and using sterile equipment for body modifications are also key in reducing transmission risks.
- 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.
Zika and dengue are both present in Saint Martin. Take precautions to avoid mosquito bites including using insect repellents or netting. Zika poses an extra risk to women who are pregnant or may become pregnant. Consider taking extra precautions or making additional plans for your trip.
See our vaccinations page to learn more about these infections and vaccines. Ready to protect yourself? Book your travel health appointment today by calling or schedule online now.
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Saint Martin
Prevent Bug Bites in Saint Martin
Shield yourself from bug bites with proper attire and EPA-approved repellents such as DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Safeguard your sleep area with bed nets and screens. In case of bug bites, clean the area, resist scratching, and utilize over-the-counter solutions while seeking professional assistance for severe reactions.
Food and Water Safety in Saint Martin
When eating abroad, prioritize cooked and hot foods, choose reputable eateries, and practice good hand hygiene. Stick to bottled or sealed beverages, avoid tap water, and enjoy hot drinks or alcohol responsibly. To avoid travelers’ diarrhea, follow these tips: eat well-prepared foods, drink safe water, maintain hand hygiene, consider probiotics, and be selective about local dishes.
Infections To Be Aware of in Saint Martin
- African Tick-Bite Fever – Protect against African Tick-Bite Fever (ATBF) by wearing long sleeves, applying insect repellent, and regularly inspecting for ticks. Consult healthcare experts for guidance when planning trips to affected regions.
- Dengue – Dengue fever, a viral infection spread by mosquitoes, is characterized by symptoms like high fever and rash. Prevention involves protective measures against mosquito bites and eliminating breeding sites. For those affected, seeking prompt medical care, staying hydrated, and using specific pain relievers under guidance is essential for recovery.
- Zika – Zika virus, transmitted mainly by Aedes mosquitoes, can have serious consequences, especially for pregnant women and their babies. To prevent Zika, individuals should protect themselves from mosquito bites, practice safe sex, and eliminate breeding sites.
Do I Need a Visa for Saint Martin?
A visa is not required for if you are visiting for tourism purposes, and plan to stay for up to 90 days. Travelers must have a valid passport and proof of onward travel. Proof of sufficient funds may be required for some travelers.
Saint Martin Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Saint Martin? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | ||
| Vaccinations | ||
Sources: Embassy of Saint Martin and U.S. State Department
What Is the Climate Like in Saint Martin?
Saint Martin is an island in the Caribbean with warm temperatures and humidity all year round. The peak tourist season is from December to April when it’s dry and sunny with temperatures in the mid-70’s to low 80’s. The rainy season runs from May to November with occasional heavy downpours and thunderstorms.
Some popular tourist destinations include Maho Beach where visitors can watch planes fly overhead as they land and take off. Orient Bay is one of the most popular beaches on the French side of the island. Marigot is the capital of the French side and is known for its colorful buildings and lively market. The weather in all these places is warm with occasional rain.
How Safe Is Saint Martin?
Saint Martin is relatively safe island destination. Petty crime like theft and pick-pocketing is common. Thieves tend to focus on purses and passports. Beaches, hotel rooms and vehicles are common sites for theft.
If you choose to rent a vehicle while on the island, consider insurance. Vehicle theft and theft from vehicles does occur. Both often involve smashing a window to gain entry.
Be aware of your surroundings at all times. Hide your valuables instead of flaunting them. Avoid walking in dark areas and keep your passport in a secure location, to avoid theft.
Keeping Your Head Above Water in Saint Martin
Avoid an Embarrassing Stop
Over 70% of travelers
will have diarrhea.
Get protected with Passport Health’s
travelers’ diarrhea kit!
If you plan to visit Saint Martin, you are likely also planning to take a dip into the island’s beautiful waters. Saint Martin offers a variety of water activities for every visitor.
Every venture out on the ocean has some risk. Make sure you know how to swim before taking part in any water activity. Accidents have also happened, as watercraft traffic can be high in some tourist areas.
Some tourists visit Maho Beach, which is near an airport runway. These travelers will try to experience the jet blast of incoming and outgoing planes. This can lead to serious injury and even death.
A vacation in Saint Martin can be the perfect island adventure. But, only if you are careful and avoid high risk situations.
What Should I Pack for Saint Martin?
Make sure you have what you need to for your trip to Saint Martin. A few common items include:
- Insect Repellent – Mosquitoes on Saint Martin may carry the Zika virus. Pack a repellent with at least 20%-30% DEET to help keep the bugs away.
- Sunscreen – Saint Martin is an ideal destination to soak up some sun. Soaking up too much sun can lead to sunburn and even skin damage. Make sure to pack and apply a sunscreen with at least 35 SPF to keep yourself protected.
- Light Clothing – Since Saint Martin can be quite hot and sunny, bring clothing that is light in weight and in color. This will be more breathable, and will attract less sunlight than darker colors. Cotton clothing, or even active wear, might be good choices to keep cool on this vacation.
- Voltage Converter – The Dutch side of Saint Martin uses the same voltage as the US. The French side of the island requires an outlet adapter and voltage converter.
U.S. Embassy in Saint Martin
All Americans visiting Saint Martin 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.
The U.S. doesn’t have an embassy in Saint Martin, but it has a Consulate General in Curacao that helps Americans in the Dutch Caribbean. They can give new passports, help with legal documents, and give emergency assistance for medical issues or arrests. They also have information on how to register to vote and travel information.
While there is no embassy in Saint Martin, the consulate in Barbados serves the area:
U.S. Embassy Bridgetown
Wildey Business Park
Wildey
Saint Michael BB 14006
Barbados, W.I.
Telephone: +(246) 227-4399
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(246) 227-4000
Fax: +(246) 431-0179
The services can change depending on what the person needs. If you’re traveling in the area and need help, contact the Consulate for more information.
Ready to start your next journey? Call us at or book online now!
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Saint Martin
“I was very impressed with the professional and comprehensive information that I needed to stay as well as possible on my first trip to Saint Martin.”
“The Passport Health office in Washington, D.C. certainly exceeded my expectations! Robert was amazing & provided so much information regarding my upcoming trip to Saint Martin. He gave me valuable advice, didn’t pressure me to make decisions, and even put together a packet for my trip. I was truly impressed!”
“The nurse spent quality time explaining the whys and wherefores of getting the vaccinations for my upcoming trip to Saint Martin. Clear, Concise and to the point. The vaccinations were professionally done and completed quickly. I got a lollipop too!”
US – English
CA – English
UK – English
Rest of World – English
