You can take steps to avoid travelers' diarrhea Avoid food that has been sitting on a buffet. Eat raw fruits and vegetables only if you have washed them in clean water or peeled them. Only drink beverages from factory-sealed containers, and avoid ice because it may have been made from unclean water.

Preventing travelers' diarrhea in the Dominican Republic requires a combination of strict hygiene, careful consumption, and potentially medical preparation. The CDC and health experts recommend the "boil it, cook it, peel it, or forget it" rule. Stick to bottled, sealed water even for brushing your teeth, and avoid ice cubes unless they are made from purified water in major resorts. Be cautious with raw vegetables, salads, and unpeeled fruits that may have been washed in tap water. Street food and beach vendors pose the highest risk, so it is safer to eat at established restaurants where food is served piping hot. For medical prevention, consult a travel clinic about the Dukoral oral vaccine, which can help protect against certain strains of E. coli and cholera. Additionally, carrying hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol and using it frequently before eating is vital. Some travelers also take Pepto-Bismol (Bismuth subsalicylate) as a prophylactic measure, though you should discuss this with a doctor first. If you do get sick, ensure you have an oral rehydration salts (ORS) kit and a course of antibiotics like Azithromycin packed in your first-aid kit.