antimalarial prophylaxis in Punta Cana

[lavarga]

Because the CDC advises taking an antimalarial prophylaxis for travel to Punta Cana, my doctor recommended it. I am going to be taking Cloroquine Phosphate -- 500 mg, 1x a week for 5 weeks.

Has anyone taken this, and how does it affect your ability to drink alcohol???

[lavarga]

I have heard a lot about it, so if you yourself have taken it, or know someone personally who has, that would be most beneficial to me.

Thank you!

[Carib Mark]

I have taken Malaria Medications by prescription and not had a problem with alchohol personally. However, malaria medications for 1 region are not always effective against the variation of the disease foundin other areas. I wanted to take the one you are considering for a region of Africa, but was told, it would not be effective and was prescribed another. I suggest you contact the CDC in Atlanta (they're very nice there) and speak to them, or have them recommend a doctor (usually associated with a travel disease center) in your area who you can be sure is prescrobing the correct meds, and can answer all your questions professionally. You can't be too careful when it comes to your health. Best of luck, have a great trip and stay healthy.

[Carib Mark]

The following is copied from the CDC website and was posted May 13th. In my opinion, no need to take meds you don't need! Relax and enjoy!! FROM THE CDC: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has lifted the outbreak notice for travel to La Altagracia Province, Dominican Republic, including the resorts at Punta Cana. No new malaria cases in travelers have been reported from the area since January 2005; the numbers of malaria cases in the Dominican Republic have returned to what is normal for this province. The outbreak notice for Duarte Province was lifted on February 23, 2005.

[lavarga]

Thanks for the advice. I'm thinking about not taking the meds b/c of the CDC's recent lift of the caution -- my parents are more worried than I am. FYI, chloroquine is the recommended med for travel to Punta Cana.