Travel Vaccines and Advice for Dominica
Dominica has been nickname the “Nature Isle of the Caribbean” due to its beautiful natural environment. Marked with lush rain forests, tall mountains, and filled with exotic flora and fauna, the island is a must-visit.
Travellers can go to small fishing villages, giving them a chance to snorkel or dive and see sunken ships. There are also beautiful hiking trails through the rain forest and mountains. Those looking to relax in one of many hot springs in the country. The more adventurous can even find zip-lines to get an amazing view of the country.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Dominica?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Dominica
What are Dominica’s Entry Requirements?
What Is the Climate Like in Dominica?
How Safe Is Dominica?
Morne Trois Pitons National Park
What Should I Take to Dominica?
Canadian Embassy in Dominica
Do I Need Vaccines for Dominica?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Dominica. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Dominica: typhoid, hepatitis A, polio, yellow fever, rabies, hepatitis B, influenza, pneumonia, meningitis, chickenpox, shingles, Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) and measles, mumps and rubella (MMR).
See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:
- Typhoid –
Food & Water –
Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. - Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travellers. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travellers to any destination. - Yellow Fever –
Mosquito –
Required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
Vaccine recommended for long-term travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Recommended for travellers to most regions. - Influenza –
Airborne –
Vaccine components change annually. - COVID-19 –
Airborne –
Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. - Pneumonia –
Airborne –
Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. - Meningitis –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. - Chickenpox –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. - Shingles –
Direct Contact –
Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended. - TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) –
Wounds & Airborne –
Only one adult booster of pertussis required. - Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) –
Various Vectors –
Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.
See the table below for more information:
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for Dominica |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Typhoid | Food & Water | Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. |
| Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travellers. |
| Polio | Food & Water | Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travellers to any destination. |
| Yellow Fever | Mosquito | Required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. |
| Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | Vaccine recommended for long-term travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Recommended for travellers to most regions. |
Routine Vaccinations for Dominica |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Influenza | Airborne | Vaccine components change annually. |
| COVID-19 | Airborne | Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. |
| Pneumonia | Airborne | Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. |
| Meningitis | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. |
| Chickenpox | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. |
| Shingles | Direct Contact | Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. |
| TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) | Wounds & Airborne | Only one adult booster of pertussis required. |
| Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) | Various Vectors | Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended. |
Specific Vaccine Information
- Typhoid – Typhoid fever, caused by Salmonella Typhi, is a serious illness transmitted through contaminated food and water. Prevention strategies include vaccination as well as practicing strict hygiene and safe food handling.
- Hepatitis A – Hepatitis A spreads through contaminated food, water, and close contact. Protect yourself by getting vaccinated with the hepatitis A vaccine and maintaining proper hygiene. Vaccination is a critical step in preventing this contagious liver infection, according to health authorities.
- Rabies – Rabies is a life-threatening viral infection transmitted primarily through bites and scratches from infected animals. Vaccination is the key to prevention, offering pre-exposure protection to high-risk individuals and post-exposure treatment for those exposed to rabies.
- Hepatitis B – Hepatitis B, caused by the hepatitis B virus, spreads through infected bodily fluids. While safe practices can reduce the risk, vaccination is the most reliable defense. The hepatitis B vaccine stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies, ensuring robust and long-lasting protection against this liver disease.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are viral infections that can spread through close contact and respiratory droplets. Vaccination is the most effective way to halt their transmission. The MMR vaccine, given in two doses, strengthens immunity, reducing the chances of contracting and spreading these diseases.
Hepatitis A and typhoid can be contract from contaminated food or water. Be cautious of the food and water (including ice) that you consume.
Dengue and Zika are both present on the island. Make sure your protected with repellents or netting. Pregnant women or women who may become pregnant should take extra precautions against Zika.
Visit our vaccinations page to learn more. Travel safely with Passport Health and schedule your appointment today by calling or book online now.
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Dominica
Prevent Bug Bites in Dominica
Protect yourself from bug bites by wearing long clothing and using PHAC-recommended repellents like DEET or picaridin. Avoid bug-prone areas during peak hours to reduce the risk.
Food and Water Safety in Dominica
Safeguard your health during international travels by eating fully cooked, hot meals, at reliable dining establishments. To minimize the chances of travellers’ diarrhea, follow these precautions: choose safe foods, avoid untreated water, practice frequent hand-washing, consider probiotics, and exercise caution when indulging in unfamiliar cuisines.
Infections To Be Aware of in Dominica
- African Tick-Bite Fever – ATBF, transmitted by ticks in sub-Saharan Africa, can be prevented by wearing protective clothing, using insect repellent, and checking for ticks. For additional protection, inquire about available options from healthcare experts before travelling to affected areas.
- Dengue – Dengue fever is a significant global health concern. Symptoms can escalate from mild fever to life-threatening conditions. Preventing mosquito bites is key to avoidance, with recommendations including repellent and netting use.
- Zika – Zika, transmitted by infected mosquitoes and through sexual contact, can lead to birth defects. Preventing Zika involves using insect repellent, safe sexual practices, and eliminating mosquito breeding sites.
What are Dominica’s Entry Requirements?
To enter Dominica, a valid passport is required. A business or tourist visa is not required for up to 6 months.
Dominica Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Dominica? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | ||
| Vaccinations | |
|
Sources: Embassy of Dominica and Canadian Travel and Tourism
Travellers may be asked to provide proof of an onward ticket, confirmed accommodations and sufficient funds. All individuals over the age of 12 are subject to a $22 departure tax upon leaving the country.
Visit the Canadian Travel and Tourism website for more information on entry and exit requirements.
What Is the Climate Like in Dominica?
Dominica is an island in the Caribbean with a tropical rainforest climate. The weather is warm and humid all year round, with temperatures ranging from 25 to 30 degrees.
The most popular tourist destinations in Dominica are located along the coast. These include Roseau, the capital city, Portsmouth, Soufriere, and Scotts Head. The weather in these places is similar, with warm and humid temperatures. The temperature is cooler along the coast due to the ocean breeze.
When visiting Dominica, it is a good idea to bring lightweight and breathable clothing. You should also stay hydrated to remain comfortable in the warm and humid weather.
How Safe Is Dominica?
Crimes such as murder, rape, robbery, and burglary do occur in Dominica. Travel only in well-lit areas and avoid travelling alone if possible. Do not leave valuable items unattended in public areas including beaches.
Petty crime, such as pick-pocketing or bag-snatching, can also occur. Avoid carrying unnecessary valuables with them. Avoid demonstrations or large gatherings, as they are good opportunities for pick-pocketing.
Take extra precautions at beaches, night clubs or other public areas. Try to travel in groups and avoid wearing anything that will attract undue attention.
Morne Trois Pitons National Park
Avoid mosquitoes and other bugs
Insect-borne disease are a
threat throughout the world.
Keep the bugs away with
Passport Health’s repellent options!
Morne Trois Pitons National Park is a popular tourist destination in Dominica. It is a beautiful place with mountains, rainforests, waterfalls and hot springs. There are many things to do there, like hiking on easy or hard trails, swimming in hot springs, and seeing waterfalls. Visitors can also learn about the different kinds of plants and animals that live in the park.
One of the highlights of the park is the Boiling Lake, which is the second-largest hot lake in the world. It’s a great place for hikers who like a challenge. Another popular attraction is the Middleham Falls Trail, which leads to a beautiful waterfall.
Morne Trois Pitons National Park is also home to the Ti Kwen Glo Cho hot spring, which is believed to have therapeutic properties. Visitors can relax and soak in the warm waters.
Morne Trois Pitons National Park is a wonderful place to visit for people who love nature and outdoor activities. It’s a great opportunity to explore the natural beauty of Dominica and learn about the its biodiversity.
What Should I Take to Dominica?
Caribbean nations are some of the most popular destinations for travel. But, it’s important to make sure you have everything you need before travelling.
- Light Clothing – It can get very hot and humid in Dominica. You will be most comfortable in light, flowy clothing.
- Sunscreen – Lounging on the beach or exploring the outdoors is a must in Dominica. Make sure to lather up in sunscreen first to preventing burning.
- Mosquito Repellent – Mosquito-borne diseases are common in many parts of Dominica. Make sure you’re protected with repellents and any needed vaccinations.
- Sweater or Jacket – Nights can be chilly in some areas at various times of the year. Make sure to bring a light jacket or sweater just in case.
Canadian Embassy to Dominica
Due to the fact that there is no resident Canada government office in Dominica, all consular assistance can be handled by the High Commission of Bridgetown.
High Commission of Canada in Bridgetown, Barbados
Bishop’s Court Hill,
St. Michael,
P.O. Box 404,
Bridgetown, Barbados BB11113
Telephone: (246) 629-3550
Ready to start your next journey? Call us at or book online now!
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Dominica
“The nurse was very knowledgeable and made me feel so comfortable. I don’t like needles and I didn’t feel a thing. It was a great experience and I am less nervous for my trip to Dominica.”
“The nurse was sympathetic and listened to my concerns about Dominica. She was very knowledgeable and easy to talk to. I had an excellent consultation and left without any lingering questions or doubts.”
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