Risk / Health Info for Dominican Republic

What inoculations do I need for Dominican Republic?

The health requirements for Dominican Republic may seem complex, but our experts can advise you. There are two vaccines recommended to travellers that will help you to avoid a pair of unpleasant GI illnesses: vaccines against hepatitis A and typhoid.

Are you at elevated risk of exposure to hepatitis B? The following groups of travellers should consider a hep B vaccination before they go to Dominican Republic:

• children
• frequent travellers
• long-stay travellers

If you are going to Dominican Republic to work in healthcare or any other role that will expose you to bodily fluids, you should ask your advisor about a hep B vaccine. Other infection routes include recreational intravenous drug use, unprotected sex and cosmetic procedures such as tattooing and piercing.

Rabies occurs in Dominican Republic. Anyone who will be around dogs or animals should consider getting vaccinated against rabies as it is spread via animal bites. Children are particularly at risk from animal bites and should, therefore, be vaccinated. Seek urgent medical advice about an animal bite or scratch in Dominican Republic, even if you have been vaccinated.

Are there hospitals in Dominican Republic?

Private medical facilities are good in Dominican Republic but public services are limited. You may end up overpaying if you go private. Travel insurance is strongly recommended for people going to Dominican Republic.

The emergency number in Dominican Republic is 911 in Santa Domingo. Outside Santa Domingo, call the tourist police on 1 809 200 3500.

Protect your health in Dominican Republic

It is possible to contract several mosquito-borne illnesses in Dominican Republic including Chikungunya virus, dengue fever, malaria and zika so it is a very good idea to avoid bites. You should wear clothing with good limb coverage and use a reliable insect repellent. Sleep under nets wherever possible. Malaria prophylaxis is available: ask your travel health nurse for a regime that will suit your needs.

Altitude in Dominican Republic

Parts of Dominican Republic are higher than 2,400m, and travellers planning to spend time at a high altitude should take steps to protect themselves against the potentially life-threatening acute mountain sickness. Your healthcare provider can help with this.

Chikungunya virus in Dominican Republic

Cases of Chikungunya virus have been reported in Dominican Republic. 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 Dominican Republic

There have been cases of the mosquito-borne virus dengue fever in Dominican Republic. 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.

Malaria in Dominican Republic

Malaria prophylaxis will be required for some parts of Dominican Republic at certain times of year. There is no malaria vaccine, but there are anti-malaria drugs that should be taken before, during and after travelling to certain at-risk countries. Speak with your healthcare provider six weeks before your trip, as not all prophylaxis regimes are appropriate for all regions and all individuals.

Schistosomiasis in Dominican Republic

The schistosomiasis parasite enters humans through the skin during contact with fresh water. To prevent infection, avoid swimming or paddling in lakes and streams in Dominican Republic. This condition is also known as bilharzia.

Zika in Dominican Republic

Global Affairs Canada has issued a warning about the risk of contracting Zika in Dominican Republic. 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 Dominican Republic. 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.