Cholera in the Dominican Republic

08 Oct 2018

On 25 September 2018 the European Commission Emergency Response Coordination Centre reported 95 cases of cholera in residents of La Descubierta municipality in the Province of Independencia in the south west of the Dominican Republic. Local authorities have requested support from the Ministry of National Health and humanitarian organisations, including the Red Cross.

Advice for Travellers

Prevention is focused on ensuring safe water and food, particularly in countries where cholera is more common or where outbreaks occur (see individual country record). Food and drink to be wary of include untreated water, ice, shellfish, salads, unwashed fruit and vegetables.

Good personal hygiene is essential. Individuals should ensure that they wash their hands frequently, prior to eating and after visiting the bathroom.

A vaccine is available to protect against cholera but as the risk to most travellers is very low, it is only recommended in the following circumstances:

• Volunteers/aid workers/medical personnel in disaster relief situations where cholera outbreaks likely.
• Those travelling to work in slums/refugee camps, areas affected by natural disasters, or countries experiencing cholera outbreaks and where care with food and water is difficult or not possible.

For further information see Cholera.