World Country Guide

Notes
1: Immunisation against typhoid and poliomyelitis is occasionally recommended.

Food & drink
Mains water is normally chlorinated and, whilst relatively safe, may cause mild abdominal upsets. Bottled water is available and is advised for the first few weeks of the stay. Drinking water outside main cities and towns may be contaminated and 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
Bilharzia (schistosomiasis) is present. Avoid swimming and paddling in fresh water; swimming pools which are well chlorinated and maintained are safe. Typhoid, hepatitis B, diphtheria and tuberculosis immunisations are occasionally recommended.
Rabies is present, particularly in the mongoose. For those at high risk, vaccination before arrival should be considered. If you are bitten, seek medical advice without delay. For more information, consult the Health appendix.

Health care
A reciprocal health agreement exists between France and the UK. However, the benefits which go with this agreement may not be fully available in Martinique. Check with your doctor before departure. Martinique has 18 hospitals and several specialists and clinics.