Micronesia
About Micronesia
| Currency | US Dollar (USD) |
| Language | English |
| Capital | Palikir |
The archipelago of islands that make up the Federated States of Micronesia were first located by Spanish explorers in 1500. In 1898, the Caroline Islands (now Micronesia and Palau), came under German control until 1914 where they were occupied by Japan during the First World War. During the second World War, the islands were used as battle grounds by the United States and at the end of the war, they became UN trust territory under US administration. It was not until 1986, when a Compact of Free Association agreement was signed by the US, that Micronesia, the 4 most eastern Caroline island groups, gained independence. This agreement gives the US exclusive rights to the islands of Micronesia for military operations and, in turn, it provides Micronesia with defence, financial support and access to US domestic services and labour markets. The islands of Micronesia are composed of 4 major islands groups, and over 600 islands, in the western Pacific ocean. The president of Micronesia is both the chief of state and the head of government. The population of Micronesia was estimated to be 104,196 people in 2017. Subsistence farming and fishing are the primary industries of Micronesia, though the country is heavily reliant on US foreign aid. Due to its location, Micronesia has a tropical climate – heavy rainfall throughout the year, high humidity, and an average yearly temperature of 27ºC.
Recommended Vaccinations For Micronesia
For Most Travellers
Hepatitis A Vaccine
There is a risk of exposure to hepatitis A in this country, therefore, the vaccination is recommended.
Hepatitis B Vaccine
There is a risk of infection with hepatitis B for this country, therefore, the vaccination is recommended.
For Some Travellers
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.
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, rural areas, or staying with friends and family.
Recommended Medications For Micronesia
There are no recommendations for Micronesia at this time.
Diseases To Be Aware of for Micronesia
For Most Travellers
Chikungunya Fever
Chikungunya fever may occur in this country.
Hepatitis A
There is a risk of exposure to hepatitis A virus in this country through contaminated food or water.
Hepatitis B
There is a risk for acquiring hepatitis B in this country.
Dengue Fever
Dengue fever may occur in this country.
For Some Travellers
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.
Rabies
The risk of acquiring Rabies is low. Micronesia 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 virus may occur in this country.
Tuberculosis
Travellers to this country are at risk for tuberculosis if visiting sick friends or family, working in the healthcare field, or having close prolonged contact with a sick person.
Typhoid Fever
Unvaccinated people can become infected through contaminated food and water in this country, especially when visiting smaller cities, villages, or rural areas where water and food may not be safe.
Safety & Security in Micronesia
Personal Safety
The crime rate in Micronesia is low; the highest crime rates are reported in the state of Chuuk. Nevertheless, travellers are advised to take necessary precautions to stay safe and to avoid petty crime, theft and house break-ins. Always be alert in your surroundings. Keep valuables secured and out of sight. Safeguard your important documents, such as your passport. Ensure doors are locked at all times. Avoid walking alone at night. Do not accept drinks or food from strangers and never leave your drinks out of your sight. Road travel can be unsafe due to poor road conditions, poor driving customs, unpaved roads and weather concerns. Avoid travelling at night as most roads are unlit. Drive on the right. Travellers are advised to book taxis only through a hotel or tour operator. Exercise extreme caution when participating in outdoor adventure activities as safety standards may be poor. Also exercise caution when swimming as currents may be strong and unpredictable. Travellers are advised to exercise caution when participating in water-related activities as unexploded World War II ordnances remain, especially in the region of the Yap harbour. Always check with your insurance provider to ensure the activities you attend to partake in are covered by your insurance policy. Tropical cyclone season is between June to November, but cyclones may occur throughout the year. Flooding, landslides, major damage to infrastructure and disruptions to travel plans may result. Travellers should monitor weather updates from the World Meteorological Organization and heed warnings of local authorities. Micronesia is susceptible to earthquakes and tsunamis. Follow advice of local authorities and go to higher ground in the event of a tsunami. LGBTI travellers are advised that homosexual relations are not widely accepted in Micronesia. All travellers are advised to dress and behave conservatively in respect for the country’s customs.
