Rapid risk assessment: Risk of travel-associated cholera from the Dominican Republic

Rapid risk assessment conclusions and recommendations:
The cholera epidemic in the Dominican Republic has given rise to more than 5 000 cases since it began in November 2010. The disease is becoming endemic in the country.Response activities are focusing on reducing mortality and interrupting transmission.As the Dominican Republic is a very popular destination for tourists, imported cases are expected in the European Union. However, with appropriate precautionary measures the risk of infection and further transmission upon return to Europe remains low.Travellers should seek information on how to prevent cholera contamination prior to visiting affected areas.ECDC is closely monitoring the situation in the Dominican Republic and will provide a new assessment in response to a change in the epidemiological situation.