Samoa Health Care and Vaccinations

Title Special precautions
Diphtheria

Sometimes

Hepatitis A

Yes

Malaria

No

Rabies

No

Tetanus

Yes

Typhoid

Sometimes

Yellow Fever

No*

* A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from travellers over one year of age arriving from an infected area.

Health insurance, while recommended, is not mandatory. All health services available to locals are accessible to foreigners usually at minimal cost to the traveller. Emergency medical facilities are available at Moto'otua Hospital, in Apia. Private medical and dental treatment is also available.

Food and drink

Mains water is chlorinated, though bottled water may be preferable. Sterilisation is advisable. Milk is pasteurised and dairy products are safe for consumption. Local meat, poultry, seafood, fruit and vegetables are generally considered safe to eat.

Other risks

Vaccinations against tuberculosis and hepatitis B are sometimes recommended. Outbreaks of dengue fever sometimes occur, and cases of Zika virus have been confirmed. In both instances, protection against being bitten by moquitoes is paramount: use powerful repellant; wear loose but protective clothing; and sleep under a moquito net. 

Visa and passport information is updated regularly and is correct at the time of publishing. You should verify critical travel information independently with the relevant embassy before you travel.