last edited Dec 11, 2019
Health and Safety in Dominica
Location Map of Dominica
Dominica
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Official Recommendations
In France, for both individuals and professionals, the "travel advice" from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs regarding precautions for each country has legal value. A similar online travel advice system exists in several countries:
Health
No vaccinations are mandatory to enter the country, though it’s still best to be up to date with your "basic vaccines."
Diseases
Dominica doesn’t pose major health risks. Dengue fever and, more recently, chikungunya, transmitted by certain mosquitoes, are present. To protect yourself, the best approach is to use a good repellent, cover your arms and legs at dusk when mosquitoes are most active, and bring an impregnated mosquito net if you’re sleeping in a place without air conditioning or ventilation. There are also occasional cases of leptospirosis, a disease transmitted by animal waste, such as rats, that contaminates soil and water. The best prevention, in addition to washing your hands regularly, is to avoid contaminated or stagnant water and dirty surfaces in public places.
Hygiene
There are no major risks here either, and the water is potable everywhere. Just remember to stay hydrated, protect yourself from the sun during the hottest times of the day, and wash your hands regularly.
Local Healthcare Facilities
While local facilities are adequate for many needs, serious cases are often evacuated to Martinique or Guadeloupe, including scuba diving accidents.
Safety
Crime and Delinquency
Though not severe, (petty) crime has been increasing in Dominica in recent years, particularly due to drug trafficking. Risks of burglary, theft, and occasional assaults exist, but with basic common sense and precautions, you can stay safe. Avoid deserted beaches, isolated areas at night, solo hikes, and stay vigilant during carnival.
Scams and "Tourist" Harassment
Socio-Political Issues
Nothing to report.
Climate, Nature, and Animals
Foreign Consulates on Site
If you encounter problems while traveling abroad, your country’s consular services can assist you. Note that if you’re an EU citizen and your country isn’t represented, you can contact any other EU member state’s representation.
France
Although Dominica is under the jurisdiction of the French embassy in Saint Lucia, there is still a consular agency (honorary) on site: c/o Alliance Française, Bath State Bridge, Roseau. Tel.: +1 767 448 4557.
Belgium
There is no official Belgian representation in Dominica, which falls under the embassy in Jamaica. However, there is an honorary consulate at 20 Hanover Street, Roseau. Tel.: +1 767 448 3012.
Canada
No office in Dominica; it is covered by its representation in Barbados: High Commission of Canada in Barbados, Bishop's Court Hill, St. Michael, P.O. Box 404, Bridgetown, Barbados BB11113. Tel.: +1 246 629 3550. In case of emergency: 613 996 8885.
Switzerland
Honorary consulate: Guillet, Savanne Paille, Portsmouth. Tel.: +1 767 445 4501.