Risk / Health Info for Dominica

Do I need vaccines to go to Dominica?

What vaccines do you need for Dominica? Our advisors can put together a travel health regime that meets all your needs. Vaccinations against Hepatitis A and typhoid are both recommended to travellers going to Dominica.

Tetanus is another vaccine you may wish to consider if your boosters are not up to date. Your travel advisor can help you with this.

What are the medical facilities like in Dominica?

The main government hospital has good facilities. However, healthcare is expensive in Dominica and evacuation may be needed for serious cases: check to see if your travel health insurance covers this.

The emergency number in Dominica is 999.

Protect your health in Dominica

It is possible to contract several mosquito-borne illnesses in Dominica including Chikungunya virus, dengue fever and zika, so it is a very good idea to avoid bites wherever possible, both at night and during the day. Wear loose, neutral-coloured clothing with good limb coverage and use a reliable insect repellent. Sleep under nets or in an air-conditioned room that will allow you to keep the windows closed wherever possible. For more mosquito avoidance advice, speak with your travel advisor or check the tips provided by NHS Fit for Travel.

Chikungunya virus in Dominica

Cases of Chikungunya virus have been reported in Dominica. It is spread by day-biting mosquitoes and you can guard against infection by covering up and using mosquito repellents. Infection results in joint pains, fever, rash and headache. It clears up after a few days, but some patients are left with swollen and painful joints for weeks or even years afterwards.

Dengue fever in Dominica

There have been cases of the mosquito-borne virus dengue fever in Dominica. Dengue fever is also known as breakbone fever because of the severe bone, joint and muscular pains it causes, in addition to flu-like fever and headache. There is no vaccine for dengue fever. Avoid mosquito bites by using insect repellents (50% DEET) and by wearing protective clothing. Sleeping with mosquito nets is also recommended.

Zika in Dominica

Global Affairs Canada has issued a warning about the risk of contracting Zika in Dominica. Zika is a viral disease spread by mosquitoes, and infection during pregnancy has been linked to birth defects. Women who are pregnant or planning to get pregnant should take advice before travelling to Dominica. Zika symptoms include rash, itch, mild fever, headache, red eyes, muscle and joint pains. Avoid mosquito bites by using insect repellents (50% DEET) and by wearing protective clothing. Mosquito nets and air conditioning should be used when sleeping.