Anguilla
Health and Safety in Anguilla
Health care on the island is not very exhaustive. Primary health care is provided by three private health clinics where registered nurses provide care for minor emergencies. These are complemented by family doctor clinics, open twice a week. For secondary health care, people must travel to the small hospital located in The Valley. Health insurance is recommended as costs for treatment other than emergency care can be quite steep.
The water is usually chlorinated but it may cause mild abdominal upsets so bottled water is recommended. Milk is pasteurized and it is safe to consume dairy products. Local meat, poultry, seafood, fruit and vegetables are also reasonably safe and hygienic but it is safer to peel or cook fruits and vegetables before consuming them.
A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from travelers over one year of age arriving from infected areas. Polio and Tetanus vaccinations are recommended. Hepatitis A and B, diphtheria and dengue fever are also known to occur.
Sunburn is common and strong protective measures such as sunscreen, hats, sunglasses and lotions are recommended. Common illnesses include Diarrhea, and intestinal worms, both of which come from contaminated food or water and can be identified with a stool test.
