U.S. Virgin Islands
About U.S. Virgin Islands
| Currency | US dollar (USD) |
| Language | English |
| Capital | Charlotte Amalie |
The US Virgin Islands are located between the North Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. The population is approximately 110,000 people.
The US Virgin Islands are an organized, unincorporated territory of the United States. The chief of state is the president of the United States and the head of government is a governor elected by popular vote. The citizens of the US Virgin Islands do not vote in the US federal presidential elections, however, they may vote in the presidential primary elections for delegates to the Democratic and Republican party conventions.
Tourism accounts for 80 percent of the GDP and employment. The islands are famous for the white sand beaches, climate, and clear blue water. The island of St. John is known for parkland and beaches, hiking and snorkeling. St. Thomas is the most commercialized island and is a stop for many cruise lines. St. Croix has rainforest, sugar plantations and forts, and scuba diving.
Recommended Vaccinations For U.S. Virgin Islands
For Most Travellers
Hepatitis A Vaccine
There is a significant risk of exposure to hepatitis A for this country, therefore, the vaccination is recommended.
Hepatitis B Vaccine
There is a significant risk of infection with hepatitis B for this country, therefore, the vaccination is recommended.
For Some Travellers
Rabies Vaccine
Vaccination against rabies is recommended for travellers whose activities or employment may bring them into direct contact with bats (i.e. adventure travellers, veterinarians, wildlife professionals, researchers, etc.).
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 U.S. Virgin Islands
There are no recommendations for U.S. Virgin Islands at this time.
Diseases To Be Aware of for U.S. Virgin Islands
For Most Travellers
Hepatitis B
There is an intermediate risk for acquiring hepatitis B in the US Virgin Islands.
Dengue Fever
Dengue fever outbreaks have occurred in the US Virgin Islands, and the risk to travellers is significant.
Hepatitis A
There is a significant risk for hepatitis A virus exposure in the US Virgin Islands through contaminated food or water. Infection can still occur at tourist destinations and resorts.
Chikungunya Fever
Chikungunya fever has occurred in this country.
For Some Travellers
Typhoid Fever
Unvaccinated people can become infected through contaminated food and water in the US Virgin Islands, especially when visiting smaller cities, villages, or rural areas where food and water sources may be contaminated.
Zika Fever
Zika virus occurs in this country.
Rabies
Rabies may be present in bats.
Safety & Security in U.S. Virgin Islands
Personal Safety
Travellers to the US Virgin Islands rarely have any serious safety and security problems, although petty crime does occur. Ensure your belongings and valuables are kept safe, do not accept food or drink from strangers, and avoid unpopulated beaches after dark.
