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Latin America

Dominican Republic Travel Health

Reviewed by Alexander Webber, Chief Epidemiologist · Updated 2026-08

The Dominican Republic is a high-volume travel destination with moderate health risks. Dengue is endemic and has caused significant outbreaks in recent years. Malaria transmission occurs in specific rural areas and is an important consideration unlike most Caribbean destinations. Waterborne disease risk remains. Resort areas maintain generally higher sanitation standards but do not eliminate risk entirely.

Food Safety: Moderate Risk Tap Water: Unsafe Malaria Risk Present

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Vaccines for Dominican Republic

CDC Recommended

  • Hepatitis A
  • Typhoid
  • Hepatitis B
  • Malaria prophylaxis (for non-resort rural areas)

Source: CDC Travelers' Health — Dominican Republic

Malaria Risk

Present, primarily in rural and agricultural areas including La Altagracia (outside resort zones), Dajabon, Elias Pina, and areas near the Haitian border. P. falciparum predominates and is chloroquine-sensitive. Most tourist resort areas (Punta Cana, Puerto Plata, Santo Domingo) are considered low risk.

Food and Water Safety

Moderate Risk Tap water: not safe to drink

Tap water is not safe for drinking throughout the country. Bottled water is widely available. Exercise caution with raw produce, unpasteurized dairy, and street food prepared without adequate refrigeration.

Key Health Tips for Dominican Republic

  • The Dominican Republic is one of the few Caribbean islands with documented malaria risk — discuss prophylaxis with your physician even for resort stays.
  • Use insect repellent and consider permethrin-treated clothing in rural and agricultural areas.
  • Drink only bottled or treated water, including at all-inclusive resorts.
  • Schistosomiasis has been reported — avoid freshwater swimming in rivers, lakes, and streams.

Disease Risks in Dominican Republic

Official Resources

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