Travel Vaccinations for Palau

Palau is generally considered a safe country to visit, with low crime levels. The biggest threat to health while on the islands is through accident or injury. Many people come to Palau to take part in sporting activities, especially diving around the multiple and fascinating shipwrecks in the area. If you are planning to dive, ensure that you do so with someone who knows the area well, and that you are using suitable equipment. Some drops are suitable for experienced divers only. There is likely to be an amount of unexploded ordinance in diving areas and elsewhere in Palau, so take extra care while you explore.

The main hospital is Belau National Hospital in Koror, which is reasonably well-equipped to deal with most medical issues. Elsewhere in Palau you may only be able to receive treatment for routine problems, and doctors will expect to be paid in advance of treatment. Ensure that you have adequate travel insurance in place which will cover medical evacuation and repatriation if necessary, and that you have funds accessible to cover any upfront costs.  There have been reports of mosquito borne diseases such as dengue fever and Zika, for which there is no vaccine. If you are pregnant or planning pregnancy it is advisable to reconsider travel to the island. Take sensible steps to avoid being bitten by the daytime biting mosquitoes by using insect repellent between dusk and dawn.

As a Pacific archipelago, Palau is subject to a tropical climate, and the associated cyclones and flooding. Check local conditions for your specific destination before you travel.

Palau is a paradise for divers, with some of the world’s most impressive reefs, colourful corals and stunning marine life. Blue Corner, one of Palau’s more magical sites, is situated in the Rock Islands and can be reached by boat from Koror. The Rock Islands are mostly uninhabited, and are also home to Jellyfish Lake, where you can safely swim amongst millions of jellyfish which have very weak and harmless stings, a truly unique and memorable experience. There are a number of high quality resorts on the islands, mainly in and around Koror, although you’ll also find basic hotels and guesthouses, depending on the experience you want to have in this wild and untamed island paradise.

Infections and Outbreaks frequently change from country to country and by attending our clinics you will be given the most up to date clinical and safety advice from our team of specialists. Our advice to you often includes aspects such as:

• Food and water hygiene
• Insect and animal bite avoidances
• Personal safety
• Sexually transmitted infections
• Sun protection
• Altitude sickness

Malaria and regions within country:

Malaria is not normally present in Palau.