Micronesia

Use Normal Level of Caution

The archipelago of islands that make up the Federated States of Micronesia were first located by Spanish explorers in 1500. In 1898, the Caroline Islands (now Micronesia and Palau), came under German control until 1914 where they were occupied by Japan during the First World War. During the second World War, the islands were used as battle grounds by the United States and at the end of the war, they became UN trust territory under US administration. It was not until 1986, when a Compact of Free Association agreement was signed by the US, that Micronesia, the 4 most eastern Caroline island groups, gained independence. This agreement gives the US exclusive rights to the islands of Micronesia for military operations and, in turn, it provides Micronesia with defence, financial support and access to US domestic services and labour markets.
The islands of Micronesia are composed of 4 major islands groups, and over 600 islands, in the western Pacific ocean. The president of Micronesia is both the chief of state and the head of government. The population of Micronesia was estimated to be 104,196 people in 2017. Subsistence farming and fishing are the primary industries of Micronesia, though the country is heavily reliant on US foreign aid.
Due to its location, Micronesia has a tropical climate – heavy rainfall throughout the year, high humidity, and an average yearly temperature of 27ºC.

Currency	USD: US Dollar
Language	English
Capital	Palikir
Recent Alerts	None
Latest Alert	Not Available

Diseases To Be Aware Of

The diseases listed below are those which occur most often in Micronesia. 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 this country, especially when visiting smaller cities, villages, or rural areas where water and food may not be safe.
Rabies Rabies may be present in bats, but has not been reported in domestic or wild animals in this country.
Chikungunya Fever Chikungunya fever may occur in this country.
Dengue Fever Dengue fever may occur in this country.
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.
Zika Fever Zika virus may occur in this country.

Vaccinations to Consider

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

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.
Rabies Vaccine Vaccination against rabies is recommended for travellers whose activities or employment may bring them into direct contact with bats (i.e. adventure travellers, veterinarians, wildlife professionals, researchers, etc.).

Medications to Consider

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

None required.

Safety and Security in Micronesia

Emergency Numbers

911

320-2221 for Pohnpei

330-2222 for Chuuk

370-3333 for Kosrae

320-2223 for Pohnpei

350-3333 for Yap

Emergency services are very limited; they may be delayed or may not be able to respond at all.

Ensure travel and medical insurance is acquired before departing. Micronesia has limited medical facilities and, in the case of severe injury or illness, evacuation from the country may be required.

Personal Safety

The crime rate in Micronesia is low; the highest crime rates are reported in the state of Chuuk. Nevertheless, travellers are advised to take necessary precautions to stay safe and to avoid petty crime, theft and house break-ins. Always be alert in your surroundings. Keep valuables secured and out of sight. Safeguard your important documents, such as your passport. Ensure doors are locked at all times. Avoid walking alone at night. Do not accept drinks or food from strangers and never leave your drinks out of your sight.
Road travel can be unsafe due to poor road conditions, poor driving customs, unpaved roads and weather concerns. Avoid travelling at night as most roads are unlit. Drive on the right. Travellers are advised to book taxis only through a hotel or tour operator.
Exercise extreme caution when participating in outdoor adventure activities as safety standards may be poor. Also exercise caution when swimming as currents may be strong and unpredictable. Travellers are advised to exercise caution when participating in water-related activities as unexploded World War II ordnances remain, especially in the region of the Yap harbour. Always check with your insurance provider to ensure the activities you attend to partake in are covered by your insurance policy.
Tropical cyclone season is between June to November, but cyclones may occur throughout the year. Flooding, landslides, major damage to infrastructure and disruptions to travel plans may result. Travellers should monitor weather updates from the World Meteorological Organization and heed warnings of local authorities.
Micronesia is susceptible to earthquakes and tsunamis. Follow advice of local authorities and go to higher ground in the event of a tsunami.
LGBTI travellers are advised that homosexual relations are not widely accepted in Micronesia.
All travellers are advised to dress and behave conservatively in respect for the country’s customs.

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Updated: August 06, 2018