Travel Vaccines and Advice for the U.S. Virgin Islands
The U.S. Virgin Islands are made up of approximately 50 islands and cays, many of which are uninhabited. The three major islands are St. Croix, St. Thomas, and St. John. Less than half the population of all the islands is native-born.
Travelers will see the British Virgin Islands, which, at the closest point, are only half a mile away.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for the U.S. Virgin Islands?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in the U.S. Virgin Islands
What Is the Climate Like in the U.S. Virgin Islands?
How Safe Are the U.S. Virgin Islands?
Shop On St. Thomas Island
What Should I Pack for the U.S. Virgin Islands?
Do I Need Vaccines for the U.S. Virgin Islands?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for the U.S. Virgin Islands. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for the U.S. Virgin Islands: 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 region with yellow fever. Recommended for all travelers going to densely-forested areas on Trinidad. - 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 certain travelers based on destination, activities and length of stay. - 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 the U.S. Virgin Islands |
||
| 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 region with yellow fever. Recommended for all travelers going to densely-forested areas on Trinidad. |
| 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 certain travelers based on destination, activities and length of stay. |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Recommended for travelers to most regions. |
Routine Vaccinations for the U.S. Virgin Islands |
||
| 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 transmitted through contaminated food and water sources. Vaccination is recommended for travelers and those at higher risk of typhoid exposure. Implementing rigorous hygiene practices and food safety measures is essential for comprehensive protection against infection.
- Hepatitis A – Hepatitis A is a contagious liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus, typically spread through ingestion of contaminated food or water, or close contact with an infected person. Symptoms include fatigue, stomach pain, and jaundice. The hepatitis A vaccine provides effective prevention against the virus. It is administered in a series of shots, usually starting in childhood, and is recommended for travel to areas with high infection rates.
- Rabies – Rabies, a fatal viral illness, is primarily transmitted through the saliva of infected animals. Prevention centers on vaccination, with post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) necessary after possible exposure and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) recommended for individuals with increased 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.
Dengue is present on the islands and Zika poses a risk. Mosquito repellents are recommended for travelers. Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should take extra precautions. Consider mosquito netting and possibly changing travel plans.
Travelers’ diarrhea is a threat throughout the world. Consider a travelers’ diarrhea kit to prevent these sometimes embarrassing symptoms.
Stay safe abroad with Passport Health. Call or book online now and start traveling safely today!
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in the U.S. Virgin Islands
Prevent Bug Bites in the U.S. Virgin Islands
Guard against bug bites by wearing appropriate clothing and applying repellents with DEET, picaridin, or OLE. When bitten, clean the area, resist scratching, and relieve itching with over-the-counter solutions. In severe cases, promptly seek medical assistance.
Food and Water Safety in the U.S. Virgin Islands
While dining abroad, prioritize food safety by avoiding street food, practicing hand hygiene, and selecting fully cooked dishes. Opt for sealed bottled or canned drinks. Prevent travelers’ diarrhea by adhering to hand hygiene, skipping raw foods, and dining at reputable establishments.
Infections To Be Aware of in the U.S. Virgin Islands
- African Tick-Bite Fever – African Tick-Bite Fever (ATBF) spreads through tick bites in sub-Saharan Africa. To reduce the risk, wear appropriate clothing, use tick repellents, and conduct tick checks. Consult healthcare providers before traveling to endemic areas.
- 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, a mosquito-borne virus, is primarily spread through mosquito bites and can cause serious health issues. Prevention strategies include using mosquito repellent and practicing safe sex.
What Is the Climate Like in the U.S. Virgin Islands?
The U.S. Virgin Islands has a warm subtropical climate.
June, July, and August are the hottest months for the islands with temperatures in the mid-80’s. December, January, and February are usually cooler with highs in the 70’s.
There is no rainy season for the U.S. Virgin Islands. The wettest months are May and August through November. Rainfall is short and occurs early in the morning or late at night. Sometimes day-long rains do occur. February and March are the driest months.
Hurricane season is from June to November.
How Safe Are the U.S. Virgin Islands?
As part of the United States commonwealth, the U.S. Virgin Islands are relatively safe. But, you should still take some precautions while there.
Be sure to lock your hotel and car doors when leaving. Petty theft is common on the islands.
At night be particularly careful and stick to well-lit areas whenever possible. Always be aware of your surroundings.
Be sure to apply plenty of sunscreen. Wear items like hats and sunglasses to help keep you safe.
Shop On St. Thomas Island
Avoid an Embarrassing Stop
Over 70% of travelers
will have diarrhea.
Get protected with Passport Health’s
travelers’ diarrhea kit!
In Charlotte Amalie on St. Thomas travelers flock to shop at the hundreds of duty-free stores. You can find places to go on a shopping spree everywhere from local boutiques to small malls. There are even stores in some homes.
Main Street (or “Dronningens Gade”) is one of the most popular shopping destinations. You can enjoy cobblestone streets while looking through diamonds, perfume, electronics and more. The island has anything one could ask for, so authentic souvenirs are not a problem.
If you do head to Main Street, consider avoiding going too early or too late. Many tourists go to the shopping hub as soon as possible in the morning. Many stores close in the late afternoon/early evening.
Consider a detour to Market Square, an open-air historical vegetable and fruit market.
What Should I Pack for the U.S. Virgin Islands?
Make sure you bring these items with you on your trip to the U.S. Virgin Islands:
- Sun Protection – With so many great beaches, getting out in the sun is a must. Be sure to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats.
- Travelers’ Diarrhea Kit – The U.S. Virgin Islands are a generally safe destination. But, travelers’ diarrhea can attack almost anywhere. Make sure you have a kit on hand for your trip.
- Bug Repellent – Mosquitoes, ticks and other insects are common on the islands. Make sure you bring some bug spray to help keep them far away.
Ready to start your next journey? Call us at or book online now!
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for U.S. Virgin Islands
Overall rating: 5 stars – 3 reviews
★★★★★
“Great Experience“
“The staff was wonderful! Very professional, knowledgeable and educated us fully about travel to the Virgin Islands.”
Submitted by: Thomas
★★★★★
“Shots with a smile“
“The nurse was excellent. She talked me thru each shot option for my upcoming travel to the Virgin Islands. She even had me laughing during our conversations. I would definitely recommend this location to others :)”
Submitted by: Amy
★★★★★
“Very Helpful and Efficient“
“For an upcoming trip to U.S. Virgin Islands, I contacted Passport Health for assistance. The nurse reviewed my previous vaccinations and explained which were still valid and which needed boosters. They also helped me get prescriptions at my local pharmacy. I highly recommend their services.”
Submitted by: James
“The staff was wonderful! Very professional, knowledgeable and educated us fully about travel to the Virgin Islands.”
“The nurse was excellent. She talked me thru each shot option for my upcoming travel to the Virgin Islands. She even had me laughing during our conversations. I would definitely recommend this location to others :)”
“For an upcoming trip to U.S. Virgin Islands, I contacted Passport Health for assistance. The nurse reviewed my previous vaccinations and explained which were still valid and which needed boosters. They also helped me get prescriptions at my local pharmacy. I highly recommend their services.”
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