Common Health Risks in Mexico for Tourists

Before traveling to Mexico, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends staying up to date on routine vaccinations, such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis and influenza. Additional vaccines that may be recommended include:

• Hepatitis A – recommended for most travelers due to possible exposure through food and water.
• Typhoid – advised for those visiting smaller cities or rural areas where food and water safety may be a concern.
• Hepatitis B – for travelers who may have close contact with locals or require medical treatment during their stay.
• Rabies – for long-term travelers or those engaging in outdoor activities where they might encounter animals.

Always consult your healthcare provider or a travel medicine specialist at least four to six weeks before your departure to discuss the vaccinations for Mexico are right for you.

Tap water in Mexico is generally not safe to drink for tourists, even in hotels and restaurants. To reduce your risk of waterborne illness:

• Drink only sealed bottled water or boiled water.
• Avoid ice unless it’s made from purified water.
• Use bottled or filtered water to brush your teeth.
• Skip raw foods washed in tap water, such as unpeeled fruits and salads.

Dehydration and stomach upset are common issues for visitors. Staying hydrated with bottled or purified water is one of the best ways to stay healthy while traveling.

Mexico is known for its incredible street food and authentic cuisine. While most food is perfectly safe, travelers should take some precautions to avoid foodborne illness:

• Choose freshly cooked dishes served hot.
• Avoid undercooked meats and seafood.
• Wash or peel fruits and vegetables before eating.
• Avoid unpasteurized dairy products.

If you experience mild stomach upset, rest and stay hydrated. Seek medical help if symptoms persist.

Mosquito-borne illnesses such as dengue, Zika virus and chikungunya occur in parts of Mexico, particularly in tropical and coastal regions. To help protect yourself:

• Apply insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin.
• Wear long sleeves and pants, especially at dawn and dusk.
• Use mosquito nets or stay in accommodations with screened windows and air conditioning.

The risk of malaria is low in most tourist areas but always check current CDC recommendations before traveling.

Mexico’s climate can be hot and humid, especially in coastal regions. To prevent heat exhaustion and dehydration:

• Drink water frequently, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
• Avoid direct sun during peak hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
• Wear lightweight clothing, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
• Apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every two hours.

If you feel dizzy, fatigued or nauseated, move to a shaded area and drink fluids with electrolytes.

Swimming in the ocean or cenotes is generally safe but be cautious around areas with poor water quality or heavy surf. Check for local advisories on bacteria levels or jellyfish activity. Avoid swallowing water while swimming and rinse off afterward.

In resort areas, swimming pools are typically well-maintained, but it’s still best to avoid pools that appear unclean or overcrowded.

Some destinations in Mexico, such as Mexico City, Oaxaca and San Cristóbal de las Casas, are located at high altitudes. Altitude sickness can occur when your body has difficulty adjusting to lower oxygen levels. Symptoms may include headaches, nausea, fatigue and shortness of breath.

To help your body adjust:

• Rest and move slowly during your first 24 hours.
• Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol.
• Eat light meals and get plenty of sleep.

If symptoms persist, seek medical care. Travelers with respiratory or heart conditions should consult a doctor before visiting high-altitude destinations.

Animal bites and scratches can carry the risk of rabies or infection. Avoid contact with stray dogs, cats, monkeys or bats. If bitten or scratched, wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water and seek medical care immediately.

Here are some simple precautions to help you stay healthy during your trip:

• Wash your hands frequently or use hand sanitizer.
• Carry over-the-counter remedies for stomach upset or dehydration.
• Use insect repellent and sunscreen daily.
• Avoid excessive alcohol consumption, which can increase dehydration risk.

Make sure your travel insurance plan includes Emergency Medical Expense Coverage in case you need care abroad.