Since November 2010, there have been a number of cases of cholera reported in the Dominican Republic.
As cases of cholera are expected to rise during the seasonal heavy rainfall between the months of May to July and September to October, holidaymakers are being warned to exercise caution during their stays.
Following a few simple rules can help you guard against cholera in the Dominican Republic.
What is cholera?
Cholera is a bacterial disease which often causes diarrhoea and dehydration. One of the most common causes of cholera is consuming contaminated food or drinking water.
How can you avoid cholera on holiday?
There are a number of things holidaymakers can do to help reduce the risk of contracting cholera in the Dominican Republic. Following these simple rules is vital in any holiday destination:
- Drink and use safe water â this includes only using bottled water and avoiding ice in drinks when you are unsure where the water has come from.
- Wash hands often with safe water â washing hands before eating food and feeding children and after using the toilet or changing a childs nappy etc. can reduce the risk of infection spreading.
- Make sure all food is well cooked â any food which is lukewarm, appears undercooked, or is uncovered should be avoided.
What should you do if you suffer a cholera holiday illness?
If you do begin to experience symptoms including diarrhoea and dehydration, it is vital to seek medical attention. Drinking fluids is important if you are affected by watery diarrhoea in order to help prevent severe dehydration.
Can you make a cholera holiday illness claim?
If you have been affected by cholera within a holiday hotel in the Dominican Republic, you may be able to make a claim.
The Package Travel Regulations 1992 protect the rights of holidaymakers and allow a claim to be brought against the tour operator here in the UK. This means that if your illness was caused as a result of fault on the part of a package holiday hotel, your tour operator may be liable.
Contact Your Holiday Claims
If you have fallen ill on holiday in the Dominican Republic, our holiday claims team is here to help you.
Our specialist solicitors have over 50 years combined experience within the travel law industry and are available to answer any questions you may have on the claims process.
To speak to a holiday claims expert today, call us on 0330 100 2851.
For more information on how our expert holiday illness claim solicitors can help you make a claim for cholera on holiday, please visit our Cholera holiday illness claims page.
