Caribbean Honeymoon Vacations & Associated Health Concerns

This summer, many newlyweds will take Caribbean vacations as a honeymoon adventure. With islands covered in mountains, waterfalls, streams and beautiful beaches, the Caribbean offers a unique opportunity vacation for newlyweds.

Ensuring your health is protected while on your honeymoon should be a crucial part of your vacation planning prior to departing on your adventure. While traveler's diarrhea and conditions such as malaria are common in these areas of the world, newlyweds who travel to this area should also be familiar with the recommended series of vaccines that should be acquired prior to departure.

First, be sure your vaccines for hepatitis A and B are up to date. This is especially important if you plan to travel to areas where sanitation may be a concern at some point. Also, it is important to be sure that your tetanus-diphtheria and measles boosters are all up to date.

In addition to these vaccines, newlyweds traveling to the Caribbean should also consider obtaining vaccines against rabies, especially if touring in areas where wildlife is present, typhoid and yellow fever. While the diseases associated with these vaccines may be rare, it is still important to obtain the vaccine to ensure your honeymoon is not adversely affected by disease and illness.

While on your honeymoon in the Caribbean, be sure to practice safety measures including the regular washing of your hands and face with clean water and antibacterial soap. Also of concern is the consumption of dairy products in this region as they may be unpasteurized which can also lead to illness while vacationing.

Most travelers to the region know to consume only bottled water. However, it is also important to be sure you do not consume or gain exposure to ice cubes as these, in most cases, are made from tap water in the region. Additionally, avoid swimming in areas where fresh water is present; limit swimming to salt water.

Upon returning from your Caribbean honeymoon, be sure to visit with a healthcare professional for screening into health complications such as malaria and other diseases associated with the region in which you may have traveled. This is important as medications used to prevent the outbreak of malaria may need to be continued for up to four weeks following your return from your honeymoon.

As with any international honeymoon destination, the Caribbean offers a unique adventure in a very versatile terrain. To ensure both you and your spouse are protected on your adventurous honeymoon, be sure to follow these simple travel recommendations before, during and after your vacation.