What shots should you get before going to Cuba? And is Twinrix good enough?

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Tropicales

You don't need to get any shots for Cuba. Of course, drink bottled water (even though the water in the resorts are purified for use in the restaurants, bars).
But as for any vaccinations, you'll be fine without them.

A quote from the link below (effective for Canadians and non-Canadians):

"Looking after your health:

Canadians travelling to Cuba are under no health restrictions, and require no vaccinations.
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Health care and insurance:
We recommend carrying insurance on your trip from your local insurance company in Canada. In Cuba, insurance can be obtained from Asistur S.A., the countryâ€™s official travel insurance company.
All hotels have doctors on staff or on call who guarantee primary care. Every major resort area also has an international medical clinic that handles more complex medical conditions. These clinics are scattered across the country in Pinar del RÃo, Varadero, Cienfuegos, Trinidad, Cayo Coco, Santa LucÃa, Guardalavaca and Santiago de Cuba."

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**Edit:

Jake M, deal with your issues.

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**Edit:

I know others who had some rough side effects from the shots they took. As well, Cuba won't be a problem. I've been several times there and others answering here have also and no one's had any problems. I know people who have gotten Hep.(A) from just going out to eat in Toronto or other cities. You can get Hepatitis anywhere if you're not careful or sure about food prep, (bathroom) hygiene, sanitation, and if you don't wash your hands properly either. Many people get sick on vacations because they take 'a holiday' as well from being smart about their food and hygiene.
I work in health and see many people who've come back from trips. And the ones who got sick were because they weren't careful or didn't go to a 'good' destination.

But, all that said, it is your personal choice. So you do what is good for you. For many of these vaccinations, you'll need to give yourself time to take them before your holidays. There are 2-3 courses to take.
You can also take homeopathic with you to protect you from environmental or food bacteria/virus if you want to be careful (since some people are sensitive to 'travel')...there are no side effects and work to strengthen your system.

There are options...hopefully you've been able to feel more informed.

**Edit: Yes, Mr. Jim Lahey is correct that there are long-term side effects from these shots and can seriously affect a person in the long run. Choose wisely...

krute

1 shot of vodka
1 shot of rum
3 shots of tequilla
2 shots of gin

Triprix is better

Havanalover

No shots needed , just drink bottle water.
Take anti-diarrhoea pills and imodium with you .

Havanalover
http://www.havana-guide.com

Mr.Jim Lahey

These answer are all on the money. If I just may add this:

Have you ever noticed how Twinrix commercial really really was made to look like a public service announcement by the government of Canada? ..... then they finish it off by saying "protect yourself with Twinrex". These guys are running a business just like anybody else. Remember that. It's all about marketing. Besides, are drugs really a better alternative?

It's simple, Hep A is mostly through water, including washed fruit (peeled fruit is ok!), ice cubes. Hep B is exactly like HIV. Blood and semen. So don't fight and don't ....ahem...with a local. (for different reasons too) LOL!!
Either way, Hep A is not dangerous, contrary to what the pharmaceutical companies want you to think. It will give you flu like symptoms for up to a month, then you develop anti bodies and you're fine. In countries like Cuba, it's like chicken polks for us....they all get it when they're kids. Hep B is a little more serious. But if you are Canadian and under 30, chances are you got your Hep B vaccination in school around grade 9 I think...cant remember.

Also, there is no evidence of what the long term effects of this vaccination on the liver and kidneys. Some ppl actually get liver damage from Hep shots.

Have a good trip I'm going to Habana in a week.

lilshedevil232001

is safe to go to cuba just drink bottle water

Richard K

Probably if you wish to get it although unlike some places, Cuba is very health concious. Personally I wouldn't even bother with that.

Fest

No shots necessary for Cuba. Their international health clinics are good. I drink the tap water in Cuba and since 1994 have never had problems (i always ask the owner of the casa I am staying at if any problem with the water. if the Cuban's drink it than I am ok with it). IF concerned just stick with the bottled water.

Chamat

I'd suggest getting Twinrix shots regardless of what everyone is saying... you can avoid getting hepatitis by practicing good hygiene and all that jazz, but if you really want to protect yourself, get the vaccination. Yes, I know the chances of getting it are pretty low, but do you really want to risk getting a disease that can destroy your liver?

No other shots are needed for Cuba... just bring immodium and gravol (just incase) and you're set.

Jake M

the communist gov't might give you a shot in the head when you get there, becareful, fidel is still kickin

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