Nauru

Use Normal Level of Caution

The Republic of Nauru is in the geographic region of Oceania in the South Pacific Ocean, south of the Marshall Islands. This island nation, once known as Pleasant Island, is about 21 square kilometers with a population of about 11,000 people (2016). Nauru’s unemployment rate is about 90 percent, and citizens do not pay personal taxes. The literacy rate in Nauru is 96 percent.

Germany acquired Nauru under the 1886 Anglo-German Convention. During World War I, Australian forces captured the island from the Germans, and after the war, Australia administered Nauru. Japanese forces occupied Nauru during World War II. When the war ended, Nauru became a trustee of the United Nations. Nauru gained its independence in 1968 and is a member nation of the United Nations. The country is an island republic, with a president who is both head of government and chief of state.

In the past, Nauru gained its revenue from exporting phosphates. However, those reserves have been depleted, and there are very few other resources. Most goods are imported from Australia and the country’s income is mainly aid from Australia. Tourism does not contribute much to the economy. Tourist facilities are few. For those who visit this island, there are only two hotels, and deep-sea fishing is the main activity.

Currency	AUD: Australian Dollar
Language	Nauruan. English is widely spoken.
Capital	No official capital; Yaren District is the seat of Parliament
Recent Alerts	None
Latest Alert	Not Available

Diseases To Be Aware Of

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

Hepatitis A There is a risk of exposure to hepatitis A virus in this country through contaminated food or water.
Hepatitis B There is a risk for acquiring hepatitis B in this country.
Typhoid Fever Unvaccinated people can become infected through contaminated food and water in Nauru, especially when visiting smaller cities, villages, or rural areas where water and food may not be safe.
Rabies Rabies occurs in this country. Travellers involved in outdoor activities (e.g., campers, hikers, bikers, adventure travellers, and cavers) may have direct contact with rabid dogs, bats, and other mammals. Those with occupational risks (such as veterinarians, wildlife professionals, researchers) and long-term travellers and expatriates are at higher risk.
Dengue Fever Dengue fever may occur in this country.
Yellow Fever There is no risk of yellow fever transmission in this country. However, this country requires a yellow fever vaccination certificate for travellers 1 year of age and older arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.
Tuberculosis Travellers to this country are at risk for tuberculosis if visiting sick friends or family, working in the health care field, or having close prolonged contact with the general population.

Vaccinations to Consider

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

Hepatitis A Vaccine There is a risk of exposure to hepatitis A in this country, therefore, the vaccination is recommended.
Hepatitis B Vaccine There is a risk of infection with hepatitis B for this country, therefore, the 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, rural areas, or staying with friends and family.
Yellow Fever Vaccine There is no risk of yellow fever transmission in this country. However, this country requires a yellow fever vaccination certificate for travellers 1 year of age and older arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.
Rabies Vaccine Vaccination against rabies is recommended for travellers involved in outdoor activities (e.g., adventure travellers, and cavers) who may have direct contact with rabid dogs, bats, and other mammals. Those with occupational risks (such as veterinarians, wildlife professionals, researchers) and long-term travellers and expatriates are at higher risk and should be vaccinated.

Medications to Consider

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

None required.

Safety and Security in Nauru

Emergency Numbers

110

112

111

444-3883

Medical facilities are limited. For severe illness or injury, medical evacuation to Australia may be necessary. Ensure that you have travel health insurance for medical costs and medical evacuation.

Personal Safety

There is a low crime rate in Nauru. Take normal precautions to stay safe and avoid petty crime and theft.

Drug offences bring heavy penalties.

Ensure you have enough cash for your visit to Nauru. There is only one ATM in the country, at the Menen Hotel, and it is often out of cash. Very few places of business accept credit cards.

LGBT travellers should be aware that same-sex relationships are not illegal. However, Nauru is a very conservative country. Open displays of affection may offend and bring unwanted attention.

Culturally, pointing is considered to be rude. Avoid pointing as this may offend people.

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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: August 06, 2018