Dominican Republic
COVID-19
COVID-19 is present in the Dominican Republic.
More information:
HIV/AIDS
The rate of HIV/AIDS infection is high. Take precautions if you take part in activities that put you at risk of infection.
Other health risks
Cholera is present. It causes diarrhoea and vomiting. It can be fatal if left untreated.
Maintain good food hygiene to minimise your risk of getting cholera.
Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases are common. These include:
Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.
To protect yourself from illness:
- drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
- avoid ice cubes
- avoid raw and undercooked foods, such as salads
Get urgent medical attention if you suspect food poisoning or have a fever or diarrhoea.
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Insect-borne diseases
Illnesses spread by insects are common, especially during the hot months from May to November.
Disease risks include:
Zika virus is widespread. If you’re pregnant, the Australian Department of Health recommends that you:
- discuss travel plans with your doctor
- consider deferring non-essential travel to affected areas
Malaria is less common, but has been reported in the western area bordering Haiti, at some beach resorts, and adventure sports areas.
To protect yourself against disease:
- make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
- use insect repellent
- wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing
Consider taking medication to prevent malaria.
Get medical advice if you have a fever, muscle pain, rash or severe headache.
Rabies
There’s a high risk of rabies in the Dominican Republic. Avoid direct contact with all animals, especially:
- dogs
- cats
- mongooses (small cat-like animals)
Get urgent medical attention if you’re bitten or scratched.
Seafood toxins
Toxins occur naturally in shellfish. In concentrated amounts, these toxins are poisonous for humans:
Outbreaks of ciguatera poisoning have occurred on many Caribbean islands.
Get urgent medical attention if you suspect poisoning.
More information:
Read the original advice at SmartTraveller.gov.au by Australian Government