Medical emergencies can happen anywhere, and it’s always best to be prepared with a medical checklist for your Seychelles holiday. Knowing what to do in a medical emergency can help you stay calm, take the right steps and get the medical attention you need quickly.
Here are some essential things you should keep in mind to prepare yourself in case of a medical emergency on your Seychelles holiday.
1. Stay calm and call for help
The first thing to do in any medical emergency is to stay calm and call for help. If you or someone else needs urgent medical attention, call the emergency services in Seychelles on 999 or 112. These numbers are toll-free and available 24/7. Make sure to give your location and a brief description of the emergency so that the emergency services can respond quickly.
2. Get medical attention
If you or someone else needs urgent medical attention, don’t hesitate to seek medical help. Seychelles has a range of medical facilities, from public hospitals to private clinics. The main hospital in Seychelles is Victoria Hospital, which is located on Mahe Island. There are also several private clinics and medical centers that provide medical services. It’s essential to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies to ensure that you can get the medical attention you need without worrying about the cost.
3. Keep a first aid kit handy
Having a first aid kit with you can be very helpful in case of minor injuries or medical emergencies. Pack a basic first aid kit that includes bandages, antiseptic wipes, gauze pads, pain relievers, and any prescription medication you need. You can purchase a pre-made first aid kit or create your own by packing essential items in a small bag.
4. Be aware of your surroundings
When you’re on holiday, it’s easy to get caught up in the moment and forget about your surroundings. However, it’s essential to be aware of your surroundings, especially if you’re in a new place. Pay attention to any potential hazards or risks that could cause an injury, such as uneven terrain, slippery floors, or sharp objects. If you’re participating in any activities that could be potentially dangerous, make sure to follow all safety guidelines and wear appropriate protective gear.
5. Take precautions to stay healthy
Taking precautions to stay healthy can help you avoid medical emergencies while on holiday. This includes drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated, eating a healthy diet, getting enough sleep, and avoiding excessive alcohol consumption. It’s also essential to protect yourself from the sun by wearing sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
Medical Checklist
Going on holiday to Seychelles can be a fantastic experience, but it’s essential to take care of your health while you’re away. It’s always better to be prepared, and having a medical checklist can help you stay healthy and avoid any health issues during your holiday. Here are some essential items to add to your medical checklist for your Seychelles holiday:
Prescription medication
If you take prescription medication, make sure you bring enough medication to last throughout your trip. It’s also a good idea to bring a copy of your prescription and a letter from your doctor that explains why you need the medication. This can be helpful if you need to get a refill or if you’re questioned at customs.
Over-the-counter medication
Pack a small kit of over-the-counter medication that can help with common ailments such as headaches, allergies, stomach upset, and pain relief. It’s also a good idea to bring some insect repellent and antihistamines in case of mosquito bites or allergic reactions.
First aid kit
A small first aid kit can be helpful in case of minor injuries. Pack some bandages, gauze, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers. If you have any allergies or medical conditions, include any medication you need in your first aid kit.
Sun protection
Seychelles is known for its beautiful beaches and sunny weather, so it’s essential to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Pack some sunscreen with at least SPF 30, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses.
Insect repellent
Seychelles has a tropical climate, and mosquitoes are prevalent, especially during the rainy season. To protect yourself from mosquito bites, pack some insect repellent with DEET, especially if you plan to spend time outdoors or in the evening.
Water purification tablets
It’s important to stay hydrated while on holiday, but it’s also crucial to drink safe water. In Seychelles, tap water is generally safe to drink, but if you’re unsure or plan to travel to more remote areas, bring some water purification tablets or a water filter.
Travel insurance
Make sure you have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, including hospitalization and medical evacuation if needed. It’s also a good idea to check if your insurance covers any activities you plan to do while on holiday, such as snorkeling or diving.
Tropical Diseases
There is no danger of malaria or yellow fever in Seychelles.
People who are more than 1 year old and come from or have been in a known yellow fever region during the last six days must be vaccinated against it.
In general, Seychelles does not have any dangerous animals. Spiders and other creatures are harmless here. However, there are a few creatures that you can protect yourselves from, and make your holiday all the more pleasant.
Sand flies live in all tropical regions of the world, thriving in areas with humidity and warmth. Therefore, you may encounter sand flies during your stay in Seychelles.
Beaches, where lots of seaweed has washed ashore, are typical places where you might find them. In order to avoid being bitten by them, make sure you bring a thick beach mat or beach towel to sit on. If you use insect repellent, that can also help. If you do happen to be bitten, tea tree oil and zinc salves are good treatments against the bites themselves.
Dengue Fever is caused by a mosquito bite. Infections in Seychelles, especially concerning tourists, are extremely rare. However, we recommend regularly applying mosquito repellent during your stay.
Clothes that cover your skin and bright clothing should also be sprayed with repellent, and can also protect against being bitten. If you do happen to be bitten during your stay, you can pay a visit to a doctor during your trip.
There are no dangerous animals in Seychelles; anything you might encounter there, including spiders, reptiles etc. are harmless.
List of Hospitals and clinics
This information is subject to change and we cannot guarantee the accuracy thereof
Victoria Health Clinic: North East Coast Road, Victoria, Mahé, tel: +248 4 24 18 80
Central Hospital: Mont Fleuri Road, Victoria, Mahé, tel: +248 438 8000
Baie Sainte Anne Hospital: Praslin, tel: +248 423 2333
Logan Hospital: La Digue, tel: +248 423 4255
Free number for accident and emergency (ER) services: +248 151
Emergency Number: +248 999
The exact addresses and telephone numbers can be found in any accommodation or on the Seychelles Ministry of Health website
List of Pharmacies on Mahe, Praslin, and La Digue
Pharmacies on Mahé:
Good Health Pharmacy, Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, 8:00 to 17:00, closed Sundays, Phone: +248 4 325 144, Address: PO Box 931, Jivan’s Complex, Mont Fleuri, Victoria, Mahé, Seychelles
Central Point Pharmacy, Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 to 18:00, Saturdays, 8:00 to 14:00 Uhr, closed Sundays, Phone: +248 4 225 574, Address: Francis Rachel St, Victoria Mahé, Seychelles, Website
NDEA HQ, Address: Mont Fleuri, Victoria, Mahé, Seychelles
Eden Pharmacy, Opening hours: Monday to Friday 9:00 to 19:00, Saturdays, 10:00 to 18:00, Sundays 10:00 to 15:00, Phone: +248 4 324 999, Address: 103, Eden Plaza, Eden Island, Roch Caiman, Seychelles, Website
D’offay Pharmacy, Opening hours: Monday to Saturday: 9:30 to 19:30 Uhr, Sundays 9:30 to 13:00 Uhr, Phone: +248 4 247 488, Address: Palmont Commercial Building, Beau Vallon, Mahé, Seychelles, Website
Anse Royale Pharmacy, Opening hours: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, 9:00 to 12:30 and 13:30 to 17:00, Tuesday and Saturday, 9:00 to 13:00, Phone: +248 4 371 024, Address: South Coast Road, Shop 2, Anse Royale Complex, Anse Royale, Seychelles
Pharmacy, Address: Cap Samy, Baie Saint Anne, Seychelles, Co-ordinates: -4.3374283, 55.7592416
Pharmacies on La Digue:
Pharmacie, Address: La Passe, La Digue, Seychelles, Opening hours: Monday to Friday 9:00 to 18:00, closed at the weekend
International Health Insurance
If you are planning a trip to Seychelles, it’s important to consider getting international health insurance. While Seychelles has a relatively good healthcare system, the costs of medical treatment can be high for visitors without insurance. Here are some things to keep in mind when looking for international health insurance for Seychelles:
Coverage for emergency medical treatment
Make sure your insurance policy covers emergency medical treatment in Seychelles, including hospitalization, surgery, and emergency medical evacuation. It’s also important to ensure that the policy covers pre-existing medical conditions if you have any.
Repatriation coverage
Some international health insurance policies offer repatriation coverage, which means that if you become seriously ill or injured and cannot receive appropriate medical treatment in Seychelles, the insurance company will arrange for you to be transported to a medical facility in your home country or a nearby location with appropriate medical care.
Travel Insurance
Consider getting travel insurance that includes coverage for trip cancellation, trip interruption, and lost or stolen luggage. This type of insurance can be helpful if you need to cancel your trip due to unexpected circumstances or if your luggage is lost or stolen.
Cost of Insurance
Make sure you understand the cost of the insurance policy and what is covered. Some policies may have a high deductible or require you to pay upfront for medical treatment and then seek reimbursement later. It’s important to understand these details before purchasing a policy.
Provider network
Check if the insurance provider has a network of healthcare providers in Seychelles, or if they require you to pay out of pocket and seek reimbursement later. It can be helpful to have a list of healthcare providers in Seychelles that accept your insurance.
In conclusion, getting international health insurance for your trip to Seychelles can provide peace of mind and financial protection in case of unexpected medical expenses. Be sure to carefully review policy details and coverage options before purchasing a policy to ensure you have the appropriate coverage for your needs.
Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the medical checklist for your Seychelles holiday:
Do I need any vaccinations before traveling to Seychelles?
Although yellow fever does not occur in Seychelles, an official yellow fever vaccination certificate may be required depending on your itinerary. Requirement: A certificate proving yellow fever vaccination is required for travelers aged ≥ 1 year coming from countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission.
Is malaria a concern in Seychelles?
Malaria is not common in Seychelles, but there have been occasional cases. It’s recommended to take antimalarial medication as prescribed, use insect repellent with DEET, and sleep in air-conditioned or screened accommodations.
What should I do in case of a medical emergency in Seychelles?
In case of a medical emergency, call the emergency services in Seychelles at 999. If you have travel insurance, contact your insurance provider for assistance.
Do I need international health insurance for my Seychelles holiday?
While Seychelles has a relatively good healthcare system, the costs of medical treatment can be high for visitors without insurance. It’s recommended to consider getting international health insurance for your Seychelles holiday to ensure financial protection in case of unexpected medical expenses.
Can I buy over-the-counter medications in Seychelles?
Yes, over-the-counter medications are available in Seychelles. However, it’s recommended to bring any prescription medications you may need with you.
What should I do if I get sick in Seychelles?
If you get sick in Seychelles, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Contact your travel insurance provider if you have one, and keep all receipts and documentation related to your medical treatment.
Are there any other health risks I should be aware of in Seychelles?
While the risk of contracting tropical diseases in Seychelles is relatively low, it’s recommended to take precautions to protect yourself from mosquito bites, practice good hygiene.
Can I drink tap water in Seychelles?
It’s recommended to drink bottled water in Seychelles, as tap water may not be safe to drink. Be sure to also use bottled water when brushing your teeth and washing fruits and vegetables.
