Marshall Islands

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 A

There is a significant risk for hepatitis A virus exposure in the Marshall Islands.

Hepatitis B

There is a significant risk for acquiring hepatitis B in the Marshall Islands through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products.

Dengue Fever

Dengue has occurred in this country and may re-occur.

For Some Travellers

Measles

There is a risk of acquiring Measles in this country.

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.

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 Marshall Islands maintains a low crime rate. Petty crimes like break-ins, theft and occasional vandalism do occur. Alcohol plays a role in most crimes, especially assaults. The number of violent assaults has increased in recent years. Fights and assaults can occur at nightclubs and bars, particularly late in the evening. Be extra vigilant at night and in isolated areas. Feral dogs are common across the islands and can attack. Drink spiking can happen anywhere, so watch your drinks being prepared and never leave them unattended. Avoid homemade alcoholic drinks due to the risk of methanol poisoning.

Extreme Violence

Violent crime remains relatively rare in the Marshall Islands. The country has a low homicide rate. Street crime and threats to physical security are uncommon compared to many other destinations. While the number of violent assaults has increased over recent years, extreme violence is not a significant concern for visitors. Most violent incidents are alcohol-related and occur at night in bars or nightclubs. The Marshall Islands is considered a stable and peaceful country. There are no active terrorist threats or organized criminal groups operating in the country. Drug trafficking exists at low levels but does not significantly affect visitors.

Political Unrest

The Marshall Islands is a stable democracy with regular competitive elections and generally respected civil liberties. Civil unrest is uncommon. Public protests that draw large groups of people can have a risk of turning violent, though this is rare. Avoid protests and demonstrations if they occur. Political transitions happen peacefully through democratic processes. The country maintains close relations with the United States under the Compact of Free Association. There are no significant restrictions on freedom of assembly or expression. The political environment remains calm and does not pose risks to travelers. Monitor local news for any updates on political events.

Areas To Avoid

Access to certain atolls affected by historical nuclear testing remains restricted and requires permission from local authorities. Several islands remain off-limits as they continue to house US military facilities, particularly around Kwajalein Atoll. Unexploded ordnance from World War II remains a problem in some areas. Heed all warnings about potentially affected zones and use extreme caution when hiking or scuba diving in unfamiliar locations. Underwater unexploded ordnance may also present threats. Some atolls have dangerous radiation levels from past nuclear testing. Follow guidance from local authorities and tourism operators regarding restricted zones. Tourist facilities are limited, with only a few hotels on Majuro and Ebeye islands.