Drinking water outside main towns may be contaminated and sterilisation is advisable. Bottled water is available and is advised for the first few weeks of the stay. Milk is pasteurised and dairy products are safe for consumption. Local meat, poultry, seafood, fruit and vegetables are generally considered safe to eat. Hepatitis A and B may occur on some islands and precautions should be taken.
Dengue fever can occur in many islands.
Poisonous sea snakes and fish can present hazards to bathers. There are nine hospitals in the region.