Marshall Islands

Use Normal Level of Caution

The Republic of the Marshall Islands is an island nation in the North Pacific Ocean about halfway between Australia and Hawaii. This country of 29 atolls and five islands has a population of about 72,000 people. The government is a parliamentary republic in free association with the United States. A president is both the chief of state and head of government.

For about 40 years after World War II, the United States occupied and administered these islands. Marshall Islands gained independence in 1986. The United States still provides defence for the islands, contributes significant financial aid, and maintains a base and missile test range on Kwajalein atoll.

The United States conducted nuclear testing on some of the isolated atolls between 1947 and 1962. Those living on Bikini and Enewetak were resettled so the locations could be used for atomic bomb tests. There are ongoing compensation claims as a result of this testing, and many of the long-term effects are unknown.

Tourism is not a large part of the economy. However, those who travel to the Marshall Islands can enjoy diving around many World War II shipwrecks and fishing. The Marshall Islands are the location of the world’s largest shark sanctuary.

Currency	USD: US Dollar
Language	Marshallese; English
Capital	Majuro
Recent Alerts	1
Latest Alert	July 20, 2021 - COVID-19 Precautionary Measures in Marshall Islands (20 July Update)

Diseases To Be Aware Of

The diseases listed below are those which occur most often in Marshall Islands. Other, less frequently encountered diseases might be displayed within the Travel Alerts section if they have occurred recently.

Hepatitis A There is a significant risk for hepatitis A virus exposure in the Marshall Islands.
Hepatitis B There is a significant risk for acquiring hepatitis B in the Marshall Islands through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products.
Typhoid Fever Unvaccinated people can become infected through consumption of contaminated food and water in the Marshall Islands, especially when visiting smaller cities, villages, or rural areas and staying with friends or relatives.
Rabies Rabies may be present in wild animals in this country. Information is limited or unavailable, but most travellers to this country are considered to be at low risk for rabies. Bats may carry rabies-like viruses in this country. Rabies vaccination is not recommended, but travellers should avoid contact with stray or wild animals.
Tuberculosis There is a risk of exposure to tuberculosis, especially among health care workers or people caring for sick individuals, such as family members.
Dengue Fever Dengue has occurred in this country and may re-occur.
Zika Fever Zika fever occurs in this country.

Vaccinations to Consider

The following is a list of recommended vaccinations for travelling to Marshall Islands.

Hepatitis A Vaccine Due to the risk of exposure to hepatitis A, vaccination is recommended.
Hepatitis B Vaccine Due to the risk of exposure to hepatitis B, vaccination is recommended.
Typhoid Fever Vaccine There is a risk of exposure to typhoid fever in this country through consumption of unsafe food and water. Since exposure to unsafe sources is variable within this country, the vaccination against typhoid fever is generally recommended, especially when visiting smaller cities and rural areas.

Medications to Consider

The following is a list of recommended medications for travelling to Marshall Islands.

None required.

Safety and Security in Marshall Islands

Emergency Numbers

625-6911

Personal Safety

The crime rate is low in this country, and most travellers have no difficulties. However, petty crime, such as non-violent theft or burglary does occur. As in any destination, always be alert to your personal safety and surroundings. Keep valuables secured and out of sight.

Dress conservatively out of respect for local custom when not in resort or beach areas.

The Marshall Islands often experience hurricanes, floods, and droughts.

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Sitata uses advanced software algorithms to monitor the world for disease outbreaks and safety hazards. Each travel alert published by Sitata is reviewed by staff to ensure it meets the concerns of a traveller.

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Updated: July 20, 2021