Medical Care in Vieques & Travel Health Tips
Do you have a medical condition that may require emergency medical care? If you do, we highly encourage you to speak to your family doctor before travel. Vieques has a small hospital that is not equipped to handle all medical emergencies. Many patients have to be transported to the main island of Puerto Rico weather permitting. On the island of Vieques, the only Clinic is located in the town of Isabel Segunda.
Centro de Salud de Familia:
- Location- south of Isabel Segunda on Hwy 997
- Hours: Clinic is open Mon-Fri 7:00 am – 3:30 pm, Emergency Room, open 24 Hours
If you visit Culebra and have a serious medical condition that may need attention, be aware that the medical services in Culebra are limited as well. On the main island of Puerto Rico you will find a Centro de Salud (Health Center) in every town, Major hospitals are located in the metropolitan areas. The island of Puerto Rico offers the best care in the Caribbean. Most hospitals have English-speaking doctors, the smaller clinics may not, but they will find someone to translate for you. If you have a minor medical issue, you may visit any clinic or hospital.
Should you have an emergency, dial 911 and an operator will send an ambulance or police. Puerto Rico is not like the United States, many factors make a fast response difficult, here you’re on island time in all aspects of life. Hospitals in Puerto Rico may accept your US medical insurance plans. The safest way to travel is by buying travel insurance that covers medical care. Please call your medical insurance provider before traveling to avoid surprises. Some major credit card companies offer supplemental Travel Insurance.
Dehydration
It is warm in the Caribbean, it is very important that you drink plenty of fluids, more than you usually drink at home in order to prevent dehydration. Watch for symptoms of dehydration which include: dizziness, extreme thirst, nausea, and headaches. Beverages that are caffeinated, or contain alcohol can make dehydration worse.
Consult a doctor if you feel the following symptoms: severe headaches, rising of body temperature, deliriousness, or your body stops sweating. These symptoms could be signs of heat stress which could lead to heatstroke. Go to a cool place, and consult a doctor immediately.
Immunizations
Information on immunizations you may need when traveling to Vieques and Puerto Rico.
Following we provide you with trusted sources of useful information on Health and Travel (open in a new window)
Skin Care
To avoid sunburn always wear sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or more. If you wish to help us protect our coral reefs, please consider wearing an all natural sunscreen lotion, we love this one. If you happen to get sunburned, please drink plenty of liquids. Lotions or gels with aloe vera will help alleviate the sunburned skin. Not taking proper care of your skin, especially children, could lead to sun poisoning. Symptoms are fever, nausea, vomiting, and chills. Seek medical attention should this happen during your vacation, don’t wait until you get back home to treat it. Taking good care of yourself, and your loved ones should always be your main priority during a vacation, or you won’t be able to enjoy it.
Water in Vieques & Puerto Rico
The tap water in Puerto Rico is safe to drink, water is tested just like it is in the United States. To prevent food diseases, make sure your food is properly cooked. Generally whether at home or traveling abroad, one may experience diarrhea, nausea, urgency and bloating, these symptoms could be a result of eating uncooked food or drinking water that was untreated. Consult a doctor for medical advice and treatment, especially if it is a child.
We don’t travel without our favorite water bottles which come with a filter, saves us money and we can get water right from a faucet with more peace of mind.
Here is some helpful information on Traveler’s Health – Risks from food and drink
We wish you a healthy and enjoyable vacation to the island of Vieques, Puerto Rico.
NOTE: This page is intended for informational purposes only, it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult your physician with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health and travel.