Foreign travel advice

St Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha

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

On St Helena and Ascension, call 999 and ask for an ambulance.

On Tristan da Cunha, call the police on 5111 or the hospital on 5000.

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:

 See what health risks you’ll face on St Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha.

Medication

Make sure you bring enough prescription medication for the duration of your trip.

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 facilities

St Helena

There is an adequate standard of medical care on St Helena. You’ll be charged for any medical or dental treatment.   

If you’re planning on diving, there is no hyperbaric chamber available on the island.

Ascension

There is a small hospital in Ascension that can deal with most routine treatment and minor injuries. You’ll be charged for any medical or dental treatment.

If you’re planning on diving, there is no hyperbaric chamber available on Ascension, and no qualified rescue divers.

Tristan da Cunha

A good standard of general practice-level medical care is available on Tristan da Cunha. Operations and more serious medical cases usually need medical evacuation to Cape Town. It can be up to 2 months before a ship is available to take you.

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.