Cuba health and safety
Cuba is a very safe country in which to travel, with a low incidence of violent crime and few major health risks. Police presence is widespread, and fatal tropical diseases are rare. However, as in most countries, tourists are more vulnerable to crime and disease than locals, and visitors should take the necessary precautions.
No vaccinations are officially required for visitors to Cuba, but it is advisable to take precautions against typhoid and hepatitis A. Although serious tropical diseases are rare, there have been breakouts of dengue fever and viral meningitis. Food is generally considered safe, but tourists should stick to bottled water, particularly for the first two weeks. Cuban healthcare is less than outstanding, and many medicines are unavailable.
Visitors to Cuba should be on the alert for petty theft, and avoid wearing flashy jewellery, carrying large amounts of cash, or arranging meetings with strangers where they are staying. Cuba’s socialist regime is still firmly entrenched, and visitors should be careful of entering restricted areas and military zones unknowingly – these are not always well signposted.
Current advisory warnings about health and safety in Cuba
British foreign office - Cuba webpage
Up-to-date and reliable advice on health and security issues in Cuba
www.fco.gov.uk
MD Travel Health - Cuba advice
Comprehensive medical advice on disease and health risks, precautions and remedies.
http://www.mdtravelhealth.com
Smartraveller
Australian Government sponsored site with detailed and current information on travel risks in Cuba.
http://www.smartraveller.gov.au/zw-cgi/view/Advice/Cuba
More topics on this site…
Cuba travel information
Cuba travel tips
Cuba maps and geography
Essentials
Visas: Not required, however visitors must apply for a tourist card from the Cuban embassy in their country.
Season: November to April
Money: Pesos – ATMs widely available, transactions mostly cash
Language: Spanish – English is limited outside of resorts and hotels
Emergency #: 26811