Dominica
Located in the Caribbean Sea, Dominica is the wildest island in the Lesser Antilles. The “Nature Isle of the Caribbean” is away from tourist routes. Maybe because of its lack of paradise beaches… But thanks to this isolation from mass tourism, Dominica’s original natural beauty is still intact. The island has sublime mountains covered with lush rain forests, packed with rare plants and animals, some of them being found nowhere else on the planet. Volcanic activity is still shaping the young island, which is home to the world’s second largest hot spring. Forgotten from our modern civilization, Dominica is one of the last true natural heaven on Earth.
HEALTH INFORMATION
Risk of Zika in this Country. Learn More >>
We make every effort to ensure that the information posted on our website is up to date and accurate according to the latest public health recommendations; however, it is impossible for us to make changes on a daily basis.
For the most current travel health recommendations, please call our clinic as make an appointment with one of our travel health professionals.
DOMINICA – RECOMMENDED VACCINES
| The Yellow Fever Vaccine | A proof of vaccination against yellow fever may be required upon entry in to this country. Some travellers may not be eligible to receive this vaccine. Please enquire with your health care professional regarding your specific details. It is important to note that the vaccine should be administered at least 10 days prior to your departure. For further information, please consult with the World Health Organization (WHO) website: https://www.who.int/ith/ith- |
| Hepatitis A | Recommended for all travelers. |
| Tetanus – Diphteria – Pertussis Vaccine | Tetanus: In exceptional circumstances (eg, stay in a region where access to health care is limited), for a person aged 18 years or older, 1 dose of DT may be given if 5 years or more has elapsed since the last dose. Otherwise, one booster dose at the age of 50*. Pertussis (Whooping Cough): 1 dose is recommended for pregnant women, for every pregnancy, regardless of immunization history and the interval since the last dose (betwen week 26 and 32). *Only applicable for Quebec. |
| Measles – Rubella – Mumps | Two doses recommended for all travelers born after 1970, if not previously given. |
| Transmission, Symptoms and Prevention – Rabies | For travelers at high risk of animal bites or being involved in activities with bats. Clients who plan to visit remote areas may consider receiving this vaccine. Important to note the pre-exposure rabies vaccine is administered in 2 doses with one week interval between doses. Post-exposure vaccination is always recommended, even for those previously vaccinated. |
| Flu – Influenza | Seasonal influenza occurs worldwide. The flu season usually runs from November to April in the northern hemisphere, between April and October in the southern hemisphere and year round in the tropics. Influenza (flu) is caused by a virus spread from person to person through coughing and sneezing or by touching infected surfaces. Everyone 6 months and older should get a flu vaccine yearly. Vaccine is recommended 14 days prior to departure. |
| Routine vaccines (dCaT, Polio, Meningococcal, Shingles, Pneumococcal, Hepatitis B, HPV, MMR & Varicella) | Recommended for all travelers |
| Causes, Symptoms & Treatment – Typhoid fever | Recommended for most travelers, especially those who are staying with friends or relatives; visiting smaller cities, villages, or rural areas where exposure might occur through food or water; or prone to “adventurous eating” |
| Hepatitis B | Consider for most travelers; recommended for those who might be exposed to blood or other body fluids, have sexual contact with the local population, or be exposed through medical treatment (e.g., for an accident). |
| African Tick Bite Fever | Could be present. All travellers should protect themselves against tick bites. |
| Turista – Traveler’s Diarrhea (ETEC) | Talk to your health care professional about the risks and precautionary measures to take, as well as the Dukoral® vaccine. Important to note that the Dukoral vaccine is an oral vaccine given in 2 doses, recommended at least 2 weeks prior to departure. |
| Dengue Fever, Chikungunya and/or Zika | There are many illnesses that are transmitted via mosquito bites and unfortunately we do not have vaccines to protect us against most of them. It is important to inquire with your healthcare professional regarding the specific risks and the different illnesses presently in circulation. |
RECOMMENDED MEDICATIONS
| Antibiotics Traveler’s Diarrhea | Ciprofloxacin, Azithromycin or Suprax. |
MEDICAL CARE
The quality and reliability of the medical infrastructure in Dominica remain low. But the government is strongly willing to reform and improve its public health care system. If you need medical assistance when traveling in Dominica, it is advised that you go to the Princess Margaret Hospital (767-448-2231, 448-5720) located in Roseau. This is the main medical center on the island. Public hospitals and private clinics offering a medium level of care can be found all across Dominica. There are no decompression equipment here and the victims of scuba diving accidents have to be evacuated to Martinique. Be aware that all the medical fees in Dominica have to be paid immediately in cash, even if you are covered by a travel health insurance.
In case of emergency, call 999.
Dominica has some well stocked pharmacies. But it is always safer to bring your own basic medicines.
SECURITY ABROAD
Petty crime, including theft from vehicles, occurs. Robberies and violent assaults have occurred near tourist facilities. Crime typically increases during annual celebrations such as Carnival in February/March and the World Creole Music Festival in October.
CANADIAN EMBASSY
Emergency services
Dial 999 for emergency assistance.
