Marshall Islands
About Marshall Islands
| Currency | US Dollar (USD) |
| Language | Marshallese; English |
| Capital | Majuro |
The Republic of the Marshall Islands is an island nation in the North Pacific Ocean about halfway between Australia and Hawaii. This country of 29 atolls and five islands has a population of about 72,000 people. The government is a parliamentary republic in free association with the United States. A president is both the chief of state and head of government.
For about 40 years after World War II, the United States occupied and administered these islands. Marshall Islands gained independence in 1986. The United States still provides defence for the islands, contributes significant financial aid, and maintains a base and missile test range on Kwajalein atoll.
The United States conducted nuclear testing on some of the isolated atolls between 1947 and 1962. Those living on Bikini and Enewetak were resettled so the locations could be used for atomic bomb tests. There are ongoing compensation claims as a result of this testing, and many of the long-term effects are unknown.
Tourism is not a large part of the economy. However, those who travel to the Marshall Islands can enjoy diving around many World War II shipwrecks and fishing. The Marshall Islands are the location of the world’s largest shark sanctuary.
Recommended Vaccinations For Marshall Islands
For Most Travellers
Hepatitis B Vaccine
Due to the risk of exposure to hepatitis B, vaccination is recommended.
Hepatitis A Vaccine
Due to the risk of exposure to hepatitis A, vaccination is recommended.
For Some Travellers
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 and rural areas.
Rabies Vaccine
Vaccination against rabies could be considered for those whose activities or employment may bring them into direct contact with bats or wild animals (i.e. adventure travellers, veterinarians, wildlife professionals, researchers, etc.).
Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) Vaccine
BCG vaccine is recommended for those at increased risk from coming in close contact with infected persons or for unvaccinated, children under 16 years of age, who are going to live in the country for more than 3 months.
Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) Vaccine
A dose of Measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is recommended for infants aged 6 to 11 months.
Recommended Medications For Marshall Islands
There are no recommendations for Marshall Islands at this time.
Diseases To Be Aware of for Marshall Islands
For Most Travellers
Hepatitis B
There is a significant risk for acquiring hepatitis B in the Marshall Islands through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products.
Hepatitis A
There is a significant risk for hepatitis A virus exposure in the Marshall Islands.
Dengue Fever
Dengue has occurred in this country and may re-occur.
For Some Travellers
Chikungunya Fever
There is a risk of acquiring Chikungunya in this country.
Hanta Virus
There is a risk of acquiring Hantavirus in this country through the consumption of food and water contaminated by an infected rodent or through rodent bites.
Measles
There is a risk of acquiring Measles in this country.
Tuberculosis
There is a risk of exposure to tuberculosis, especially among health care workers or people caring for sick individuals, such as family members.
Typhoid Fever
Unvaccinated people can become infected through consumption of contaminated food and water in the Marshall Islands, especially when visiting smaller cities, villages, or rural areas and staying with friends or relatives.
Rabies
The risk of acquiring Rabies is low. The Marshall Islands is free of dog rabies. However, it may be present in bats. Those with occupational risks (such as veterinarians, wildlife professionals, researchers) may be at risk.
Zika Fever
Zika fever occurs in this country.
Safety & Security in Marshall Islands
Personal Safety
The crime rate is low in this country, and most travellers have no difficulties. However, petty crime, such as non-violent theft or burglary does occur. As in any destination, always be alert to your personal safety and surroundings. Keep valuables secured and out of sight.
Dress conservatively out of respect for local custom when not in resort or beach areas.
The Marshall Islands often experience hurricanes, floods, and droughts.
There may be unexploded ammunition in the Marshall Islands, particularly underwater. Exercise caution while hiking or scuba diving.
Take necessary precautions when travelling on roadways in the Marshall Islands. Road conditions may be poor, especially after severe storms and floods. Lack of street lights on roadways limits visibility; do not travel at night. Drinking and driving are common. Tap water is not potable. Bottled water is recommended for use.
Exercise caution to avoid ingesting water when swimming in Majuro Lagoon due to the presence of E. coli bacteria.
Legal restrictions on same-sex relations are not present. However, public displays of affection are not widely accepted in the Marshall Islands.
Cyclones may occur from July to November.
Always stay alert about the weather forecast and heed the advice of local authorities.
