Solomon Islands
Health
Before you travel check that:
- your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
- you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation
This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.
Emergency medical number
Call 111 and ask for an ambulance.
Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.
Vaccine recommendations and health risks
At least 8 weeks before your trip:
- check the latest vaccine recommendations for the Solomon Islands
- see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page
See what health risks you’ll face in the Solomon Islands, including:
- Zika virus
- malaria
- dengue
- biting insects and ticks
Viral infections are common. Take precautions to reduce the risks, such as washing hands and drinking bottled water.
Medication
The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.
Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.
The NHS has information on whether you can take your medicine abroad.
Healthcare in the Solomon Islands
Healthcare facilities in the Solomon Islands are very basic. There are limited hospital facilities and medical supplies are not always available. The National Referral Hospital in Honiara frequently runs out of blood supplies and often has limited stock of oral re-hydration salts, paracetamol and basic antibiotics. Wards and units can shut at short notice. Gizo hospital is newly built and has good facilities but can also run short of supplies.
Take a basic medical kit with you when visiting rural and remote areas. Make sure you have accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment and repatriation. If you need to get medical treatment in Australia, you’ll need a medical visa to enter the country.
FCDO has a list of medical providers in the Solomon Islands.
There is also guidance on healthcare if you’re living in the Solomon Islands.
Travel and mental health
Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.