Health in Cuba: dengue, chikungunya, medicines and medical insurance

Healthcare is one of the most delicate points of a trip to Cuba today. We summarise what the British FCDO, Canada and Spain say (checked in November 2026), adding nothing that is not in them.

Mosquito-borne diseases

The FCDO says dengue, Oropouche and chikungunya are still circulating in Cuba, although there is no longer an active epidemic warning, and advises protecting yourself against insect bites (fumigation may also take place). Spain speaks of simultaneous outbreaks of dengue, chikungunya, zika and Oropouche, plus hepatitis A, and recommends vaccination against chikungunya, dengue and hepatitis A; no vaccine is compulsory for entry. Check your own health service's recommendations at least eight weeks before travelling, as the FCDO suggests. Spain advises drinking bottled water and warns of gastrointestinal infections with a risk of dehydration: bring oral rehydration salts.

Medicines and medical care

The FCDO says there is a severe shortage of basic medicines and that many common items are unavailable; Canada warns that many prescription drugs may not be found. Bring all the medication you need, in its original packaging, with a doctor's letter listing treatment and dose. If you use contraception, condoms or other sexual health products, bring them with you: we cannot guarantee you will find them there.

Care is better in Havana than elsewhere. Foreigners usually pay before treatment, in foreign currency and cash: the FCDO and Canada note that Visa and Mastercard are not accepted, and authorities may prevent you from leaving the country with unpaid medical bills. The ambulance number is 104, but the service is limited and unreliable, according to the FCDO. Spain names the Clínica Central Cira García as the centre where Spaniards are usually referred in Havana.

Insurance

Take out insurance that covers Cuba, local treatment and medical evacuation; Canada says provincial cover does not pay up front or include air evacuation, and that proof of medical insurance may be requested on entry. This guide is not medical advice: consult a health professional before you travel.