Risk / Health Info for Dominica

What shots do I need for Dominica?

Your vaccines should be up to date before you leave for Dominica, so consult our advisers first. Vaccinations against hepatitis A and B as well as typhoid are recommended, and you might also consider a shot against cholera too.

Rabiesis another shot to consider for Dominica, especially if you will be working with animals or travelling in remote areas. Children are at particular risk of getting rabies because they might get bitten or scratched while playing with an infected dog or other animal. Always get prompt medical attention if you are bitten or scratched by an animal in Dominica, even if you have been vaccinated.

What are the medical facilities like in Dominica?

There is limited medical care in Dominica, and only one hospital has surgery and emergency facilities. However, ambulances respond quickly. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover payment in advance and, if necessary, evacuation, so consult your provincial or territorial health authority before you leave Canada.

The emergency number in Dominica is 999.

Protect your health in Dominica

You can be exposed to mosquito-borne illnesses in Dominica such as Zika, chikungunya virus dengue fever, so always avoid bites. Use a reliable insect repellent and wear loose, neutral-coloured clothing that covers your arms, legs and neck. Choose accommodation with air conditioning or sleep under nets wherever possible.

Avoid “travellers’ diarrhea” by following good water and food precautions when you’re in Dominica: if you can’t peel it, cook it or boil it, don’t eat it. Use commercially bottled water for drinking and for ice cubes.

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.