Is It Safe For Pregnant Women To Visit San Juan?

Pregnant or planning a pregnancy should discuss potential risks of traveling to San Juan with their healthcare provider. They may choose to avoid or postpone travel, especially for solo women. International travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6-11 months. Pregnant travelers can generally travel safely with appropriate preparation, but should avoid destinations with risk of Zika and malaria.

San Juan is known for its vibrant atmosphere and safety, especially at night. Old San Juan, a historic district, offers a rich cultural experience with its well-preserved history. For pregnant women, barrier methods of contraception should be used during travel and for up to three months after arrival. A negative COVID-19 test must be taken no more than 72 hours prior to arrival in Puerto Rico, from a lab approved by Puerto Rico.

Puerto Rico is generally safe for tourists, with a crime rate lower than many mainland US cities. However, there are unsafe areas in San Juan for outsiders, such as Cantera and Barrio Obrero. Women are generally not allowed to travel by air after 36 weeks for domestic travel and 28 to 35 weeks for international travel. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, are prevalent, and violent crime also occurs.

Zika is spread mostly by the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito, which can be passed from a pregnant woman to her fetus. Puerto Rico is a US territory, subject to US laws, and has US government-funded police.

Where to avoid in San Juan?

La Perla, a notorious neighborhood in Old San Juan, is known for its high crime rate and illicit dealings. However, it is considered one of the safest places in Puerto Rico, and visiting this historical area is a must for any trip. It is a must-see for anyone visiting Puerto Rico, as it is a must-see destination.

Is there Zika in Mexico?

The CDC advises travelers to Mexico to protect themselves from mosquito bites, especially those crossing the border regularly. After returning to the U. S., it is crucial to protect themselves from mosquito bites, as a contagious infected person can spread the virus to another person if the bite is infected. This is especially important for those traveling to Mexico.

Is San Juan safe for female travelers?

San Juan is generally safe for female travelers, but they may face street catcalling and spiking while drinking. It’s important to stay alert and avoid leaving bars with strangers. Drinking water in San Juan is safe, processed by the government company Autoridad de Acueductos y Alcantarillados, which sanitizes it according to the Environmental Protection Agency’s standards. For more tips on safe solo travel for women, refer to Sky’s guide.

How common is Zika in Puerto Rico?

During the height of the Zika epidemic in 2016, 10 of Puerto Rican women tested positive for the disease. However, Hurricane Maria in September 2017 severely impacted the island’s healthcare system, leading to labs no longer sending testing samples to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The outbreak in 2016 infected 40, 000 people in Puerto Rico.

Where is there no Zika in the Caribbean?

The Zika virus has lessened the immediate threat to travelers worldwide, with Caribbean destinations like the Bahamas, St. Barth’s, Cayman Islands, Guadeloupe, Martinique, and Grenada declared Zika-free by the CDC. However, pregnant women and those who may become pregnant should discuss potential risks with their healthcare providers, as transmission is still possible and the virus has been linked to serious birth defects.

As a result, some travelers are turning to alternate destinations, such as honeymoon-worthy African islands and stylish coastal resorts in Europe, for warm-weather escapes. Contact Indagare to book a trip to one of these Zika-free beach destinations.

What countries can you not travel to when pregnant?

Pregnant women should avoid traveling to areas with high malaria risk, such as Africa, Asia, and Central and South America, as they may experience symptoms like fever, chills, headache, and nausea and vomiting. If you have further questions, consult your ob-gyn. This information is an educational aid for the public, offering current information and opinions related to women’s health, but it is not a substitute for the advice of a physician. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists’ complete disclaimer is also provided.

Can a pregnant woman travel to the USA?

The U. S. Customs and Border Protection Officers have the discretion to allow or deny entry for pregnant foreign nationals, despite no specific regulations.

How bad is Zika in Puerto Rico?

The Zika virus, an arthropod-borne flavivirus, causes mild infections in humans but can lead to severe neurologic complications and adverse fetal outcomes. Sexual transmission can occur from both male and female partners, and the virus can remain viable in semen for months. Puerto Rico has experienced the most negative outcomes of Zika virus infection, with 29 birth defects, 71 cases of Guillain-Barré syndrome, and at least 5 deaths related to infection.

Vector control is a major area of attention for preventing Zika virus infections in Puerto Rico, as in most affected areas. Measures include source elimination, avoiding contact with mosquitos, and using window screens, mosquito nets, air conditioning, outdoor flying insect spray, specific insect repellents, and specific clothing.

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that all patients with Zika virus infection and their sexual partners, particularly pregnant women, receive information about sexual transmission, contraceptive measures, safer sexual practices, and condoms when feasible. Access to emergency contraceptive and safe abortion services should also be available to women who have had unprotected sex and do not wish to become pregnant due to Zika virus infection concerns.

Men and women living in areas where local transmission of Zika virus occurs should consider adopting safer sexual practices or abstaining from sexual activity.

Is it safe to visit San Juan right now?

Puerto Rico is generally safe, but tourists should exercise caution and be aware of local precautions. Volunteering with Worldpackers can connect travelers with locals and help them understand Puerto Rican culture. Taking precautions and knowing what to take can make a memorable journey through the country’s rich culture and breathtaking landscapes. It is essential to be aware of the requirements for US and non-US citizens when visiting Puerto Rico.

Is there Zika in Puerto Rico in 2024?

In 2024, 6, 878 Zika and Microcephaly cases were confirmed in the Americas, with Puerto Rico reporting three cases in the San Juan area and 43 cases in 2023.

Can I travel to the Caribbean while pregnant?

Pregnancy can be a time of increased risk for both mother and unborn baby due to the increased risk of severe diseases such as malaria, Zika virus, and yellow fever. It is recommended to avoid non-essential travel to tropical destinations during pregnancy, especially those with high risks of these diseases. Women should also take maternity notes with them, including information about pre-existing medical conditions and blood group, in case of medical care needs during travel. Postponing non-essential travel to areas with ongoing high risk of Zika virus transmission is also advised.