Vaccines For Dominican Republic

[springbulb81]

Different websites giving conflicting info. Need advice from someone who has actually been then or actually truly knows.

Are there any mandatory vaccines needed to travel here or are they all just "recommended"

Travelled to Cuba a few years ago and didn't have any. Please advise

[Sycamore3House]

Went to Domincan 3 years ago and did not have any jabs at all. Did take malaria pills though that had to be taken week Before and after holiday. They made me bad and only took them twice but did my get bitten.

[sddsddean]

This is what the US CDC says
http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/dominican-republic
Having said that, we went there for a day a few years ago (cruise stop) and were advised by our doctor that as long as we had our 'normal' jabs and up to date tetanus, we'd be OK. Still breathing!!

[Buenchico]

Too many websites attempt to offer a 'one size fits all' answer to your question. You need to consider WHO will be travelling (e.g. are there young children in the group?), WHERE you'll be going (e.g. will you be staying close to your hotel or going much further afield?) and WHAT you'll be doing (e.g. will you be involved in hazardous activities which might, for example, include sexual activity with the locals?).

The only 'official source of information in this country is NaTHNac, which is funded by the Foreign & Commonwealth Office:
http://www.nathnac.org/ds/c_pages/country_page_DO.htm

In summary:
If you've not had a diphtheria jab within the past 10 years you should have a booster.

Ditto for tetanus.

Assuming that you're only going for a holiday (rather than as, say, a health worker in remote areas), you don't need a cholera jab.

You don't need a hepatitis B jab unless you're likely to come into contact with infected blood or bodily fluids (e.g. through sexual activity).

If you're staying in a hotel (rather than with friends or relatives) and generally steering clear of areas of poor sanitation, you don't need a hepatitis A jab.

You don't need a rabies jab unless your activities put you at higher risk (e.g. through contact with animal or running/cycling).

Assuming that you had a BCG jab at school (or at some other time) you don't need to top it up. Even if you didn't, you probably don't need one unless you'll be staying with friends or relatives, rather than in a hotel. (However if you've got unvaccinated children with you it might still be best to enquire about whether they should be given their jabs before you go)

[jd_1984]

I have been and (perhaps in ignorance) didn't get jabs or even ask the question - just booked and went!