For those who take prescription medications, it is important to bring enough for the duration of your trip—and perhaps even a little extra—as there is no guarantee specific types will be available. Also, pack medication in carry-on luggage to ensure it does not get lost if there are complications with the airline. If you will be traveling with children who are prone to childhood illnesses such as ear infections, be sure to bring along the appropriate antibiotics.
Vaccinations for typhoid and hepatitis A are important for both adults and children. Check with your doctor at least eight weeks in advance to make sure the timing of the vaccinations is appropriate. Updates of routine immunizations (for children in particular) such as tetanus, polio, diphtheria, measles/mumps, and varicella are highly recommended. Also speak to your doctor about malaria and diarrhea medications.
Consult the World Health Organization (WHO) website (www.who.int/ith/ [1]) for any information on your destination. Look for its book, called International Travel and Health. Also, MD Travel Health (www.mdtravelhealth.com [2]) has a Dominican Republic page that is updated regularly.
Links:
[1] http://www.who.int/ith/
[2] http://www.mdtravelhealth.com