Antigua & Barbuda
About Antigua & Barbuda
| Currency | East Caribbean dollar (XCD) |
| Language | English. Antiguan creole is the local language. |
| Capital | Saint John's |
Antigua and Barbuda is a nation composed of islands located between the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. In addition to the two major inhabited islands, Antigua and Barbuda, it includes a number of smaller islands (Great Bird, Green, Guinea, Long, Maiden and York Islands). These are low lying islands with some volcanic areas at a higher elevation. The overall population is approximately 88,000 people.
Antigua and Barbuda became an independent state of the British Commonwealth of Nations on November 1, 1981. The British Empire strongly influenced the nation’s governance, language, and culture. The government is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system of government.
The economy mainly depends upon tourism. Antigua and Barbuda attract tourists with the dry tropical climate, white sand beaches and crystal blue waters. The US dollar is widely accepted in this nation.
Recommended Vaccinations For Antigua & Barbuda
For Most Travellers
Hepatitis A Vaccine
There is a significant risk of exposure to hepatitis A for this country. The vaccination is recommended.
Hepatitis B Vaccine
The risk of acquiring hepatitis B in Antigua and Barbuda is low, so discuss vaccination with your health care provider to ascertain any risk factors, as it may not be necessary.
For Some Travellers
Yellow Fever Vaccine
A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for travellers over 1 year of age arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission. Travellers transiting for more than 12 hours through an airport in a country/territory at risk for yellow fever transmission would also require a certificate.
Rabies Vaccine
Rabies vaccination is recommended for travellers who may come in contact with bats (i. e. cavers, adventure travellers, researchers, and anyone working with bats).
Typhoid Fever Vaccine
There is a risk of exposure to typhoid fever in this country through consumption of unsafe food and water. Since exposure to unsafe sources is variable within this country, the vaccination against typhoid fever is generally recommended, especially when visiting smaller cities or rural areas, where food and water sources may be contaminated.
Recommended Medications For Antigua & Barbuda
There are no recommendations for Antigua & Barbuda at this time.
Diseases To Be Aware of for Antigua & Barbuda
For Most Travellers
Dengue Fever
Dengue fever outbreaks have occurred frequently on many Caribbean islands, including Antigua and Barbuda.
Hepatitis B
The risk of acquiring hepatitis B in Antigua and Barbuda is low, so discuss vaccination with your health care provider to ascertain any risk factors, as it may not be necessary.
Chikungunya Fever
Chikungunya fever has occurred in this country.
Hepatitis A
There is a high risk for hepatitis A virus exposure in Antigua and Barbuda through contaminated food or water. Infection can still occur at tourist destinations and resorts.
For Some Travellers
Typhoid Fever
Unvaccinated people can become infected through contaminated food and water in Antigua and Barbuda, especially when visiting smaller cities, villages, or rural areas where food and water sources may be contaminated.
Yellow Fever
There is no risk of yellow fever transmission. However, a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for travellers over 1 year of age arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission. Travellers transiting for more than 12 hours through an airport in a country/territory at risk for yellow fever transmission would also require a certificate.
Rabies
Rabies may be present in bats.
Zika Fever
Zika fever occurs in this country.
Safety & Security in Antigua & Barbuda
Personal Safety
Although most travellers have no trouble in Antigua and Barbuda, petty crime and armed violence can occur. Travellers should not travel alone at night or in isolated areas. Local authorities can inform travellers as to which beaches are safe. Avoid showing signs of affluence, such as expensive jewelry and clothing, and ensure your personal belongings and travel documents are safe at all times.
Use only licensed taxis.
Exercise caution when driving. Roads may not be well maintained, may have blind corners, or may not be well marked. Keep doors locked and do not stop if flagged down by pedestrians.
This country no longer has legislation against same-sex sexual acts. LGBT+ travellers should note that due to the conservative nature of the country, there could be intolerance toward public displays of affection.
Ensure travel and medical insurance is acquired before departing. Antigua and Barbuda have limited medical facilities and, in the case of severe injury or illness, evacuation may be required.
