Do I Need Malaria Tablets For The Dominican Republic This Christmas?

Dec 14, 2017 Malaria

Escaping the dull, damp winter weather at Christmas time is a dream for most people.  If you are one of the lucky ones heading for the sun this winter you will have to make sure that you have the correct vaccinations.

There is no malaria vaccine so you have to take medication before and after you travel. Punta Cana is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the Dominican Republic.  The FitForTravel website advises that you do not need to take Malaria treatment at this time, but you do need to take precautions. 

The climate is tropical and prone to large downfalls of rain producing an environment in which mosquitos thrive.  You should take precautions to discourage mosquitoes from biting when you travel as this reduces your risk of contracting malaria.

The Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is a small country on an island in the Caribbean which is one of a number of islands in the area.  It shares the island of Hispaniola with Haiti which is another country entirely.  

The country experiences a tropical climate with temperatures that are sweltering hot on the coast and freezing cold in the mountains.  This type of climate is perfect for mosquitoes to breed and attack visitors.  You will have to have vaccinations against rabies and hepatitis A and B and take malaria treatment. Check the full details at the FitForTravel website. Punta Cana is one of the places you are most likely to visit due to its beautiful beaches and wonderful climate.

There are many things to do such as scuba diving, zip wires off-road driving and of course, play golf. You can take it easy and enjoy the crystal blue waters surrounding beautiful golden beaches.  If travelling to neighbouring Haiti, you will need to take preventative treatments for Malaria.

Preventing Malaria

Female mosquitos spread malaria by passing on a parasite when they suck the blood of a human.  Male mosquitoes do not bite so the female, in this case, is more deadly than the male.  Severe cases of malaria can lead to brain damage or death if you don’t take precautions.  

There is a wide range of malaria tablets available with different price ranges, side effects and dosages. Whichever brand you decide to take you will have to take tablets before you go away, during your holiday and when you come back.  This is to ensure that you are completely protected from contracting malaria.  

The side effects of malaria treatments are much less harsh than in the past making taking them much more palatable. As well as taking medication there are a number of precautions you should take to prevent the pesky mosquito from biting you in the first place.  Wear loose clothing that covers your whole body, use insect repellent,  sleep under a mosquito net and close all windows.

Sometimes the symptoms of malaria don’t manifest themselves for a while after you return.  If this is the case contact your doctor immediately. If you encounter any of the following symptoms; chills, headache, fever, vomiting, diarrhoea, painful muscles or seizures make an appointment.

If you are travelling this Christmas and want to review and purchase treatment for malaria please click here.