Cuba Travel Vaccines: What You Need for a Canadian All-Inclusive Trip

Cuba is one of the most beloved Caribbean destinations for Canadians — and Calgarians are no exception. Varadero, Havana, and Trinidad attract thousands of Albertans every year. While Cuba is considered relatively safe compared to some other tropical destinations, smart travellers still take the time to protect themselves. Here's what Imagine Health Pharmacy & Travel Clinic in SW Calgary recommends before you head to Cuba.

Vaccine Requirements for Cuba

Cuba does not require proof of vaccination for most travellers arriving from Canada. However, if you are arriving from a country with a risk of Yellow Fever transmission, Yellow Fever vaccination documentation may be requested at the border. For most Calgarians flying directly, this is not a concern — but always confirm if your itinerary includes multiple stops in Africa or South America.

Recommended Vaccines for Cuba

Even at an all-inclusive resort, the following vaccines are recommended by the Government of Canada for travellers to Cuba:

• Hepatitis A — The most important travel vaccine for Cuba. Hepatitis A outbreaks have occurred in Cuba, including at resorts. Contaminated food and water are the main sources of transmission. One dose before travel provides strong immediate protection.
• Typhoid — Strongly recommended for travellers venturing into local communities, eating at paladares (private restaurants), or exploring Havana and other cities beyond the resort grounds.
• Hepatitis B — Recommended for those who may need medical care abroad or who will have close contact with local populations. Cuba has a strong medical system, but blood and bodily fluid precautions still apply.
• Routine Vaccines — Confirm that MMR, Td/Tdap, and influenza are up to date before any international travel.

Dengue and Cholera in Cuba

Dengue fever is present in Cuba and has caused outbreaks including in Havana. It's transmitted by day-biting Aedes mosquitoes. While there's no vaccine widely available in Canada for dengue, repellent use (DEET 30%+) during daylight hours significantly reduces risk.

Cholera re-emerged in Cuba and sporadic cases continue to be reported. The oral Dukoral vaccine offers partial protection and is worth discussing with our pharmacists, especially for travellers going off-resort or staying for extended periods.

Food and Water Safety in Cuba

Cuba's tap water quality varies by region and can be unreliable. Even at all-inclusive resorts, we recommend:

• Drinking bottled or purified water exclusively — including for brushing teeth
• Being cautious with raw fruits and vegetables, especially if washed in tap water
• Avoiding street food if you have a sensitive stomach
• Packing a traveller's diarrhea treatment kit (ask our pharmacists about antibiotic options)

Planning a Multi-Destination Caribbean Trip?

Many Calgarians combine Cuba with other Caribbean islands. Our travel pharmacists can give you a single comprehensive plan that covers all your destinations. Check out our related guide for the Dominican Republic. Our Cuba destination page has additional detail on health risks by region.

Fast, Free Preparation at Our SW Calgary Pharmacy

Most Cuba-bound travellers need only 1–2 vaccines, and our consultation takes about 20 minutes. We can administer your vaccines the same day, give you a prescription for traveller's diarrhea treatment, and send you off fully prepared — all at no cost for the consultation itself. Come see us at Imagine Health Pharmacy in SW Calgary before your next Cuba trip.