Dominican Republic: Health

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Health

Never assume that water in the D.R. is safe. Drink only bottled water; some people recommend brushing your teeth with bottled water as well. Food safety has been a recurring problem in the country, but each year standards are more strict. When deciding on a hotel or restaurant, inquire if they have earned an "H" for food service hygiene, and if they have a Crystal America certification. If you are staying at an all-inclusive resort, try to arrive at the start of a buffet meal, before the food has sat out. Salads can be iffy unless you ask if the greens have been washed in bottled or purified water. Don't buy from the street vendors. If you experience intestinal problems, see a doctor at the earliest opportunity, for it could be salmonella. Some people bring prescribed antibiotics from home -- not a bad idea.