Getting Sick in Mexico: What to Do

If you know someone who’s traveled to Mexico, they’ve probably mentioned not drinking the tap water, and for good reason. This is because tap water in Mexico can become contaminated after it’s been purified, which means pathogens you’re not used to, like bacteria and viruses, can cause illness. The best way to avoid waterborne illness is to drink bottled water, use bottled water for brushing your teeth and avoid opening your mouth in the shower. Finally, be cautious when dining out since you’ll likely be given filtered tap water at restaurants unless you specify otherwise.

Another cause of stomach sickness for tourists in Mexico can be undercooked food. In general, you should avoid raw seafood, undercooked meat, runny eggs and food that has been sitting out for awhile since harmful bacteria like Salmonella, Listeria or E. Coli could form and cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and fever among other painful symptoms. You can avoid food poisoning by ordering meat well-done, avoid raw food like sushi and pre-peeled fruit, look at restaurant reviews in advance and always practice good hygiene when handling food.

While travelers to the beaches of Mexico often don’t need to worry about bugs, because the wind keeps insects at bay, there are other places in the country where bug bites are more common. For travelers exploring the jungles of Mexico, it’s crucial to cover up since disease like dengue fever, malaria and zika virus are spread through bug bites like mosquitos. Do your best to avoid getting bit by using bug repellant and wearing loose, long sleeves and pants, thick socks, closed toe shoes and a hat with netting.

There is a lot of exciting wildlife in Mexico but getting too close can cause health-related issues. This is because rabies can be transmitted from the bite of a dog, fox, skunk or other wild animal. To avoid infection from an animal bite, keep your distance from animals with abnormal behavior like extreme aggression, fearfulness, staggering and paralysis. Finally, the CDC recommends rabies shots for travelers to Mexico, especially younger children, seniors and auto-immune compromised adults.

Mexican vacations can often equate to long hours in direct sunlight, lots of activity and, if you’re of age, a good portion of alcoholic beverages. While the day can start off fun-loving and free, dehydration can sneak up on you and seriously ruin your day. You may notice you’re feeling nauseous, dizzy, irritated and are thirstier than usual. You can avoid dehydration if you frequently drink water or Gatorade to help you rehydrate. You can also set reminders, so you don’t go too long without a hydrating refreshment.

Direct sunlight can cause a lot of health concerns for tourists such as sun burn, heat stroke and other heat-related illnesses. Avoid overexposure to sunlight by frequently apply sunscreen at least every two hours if you’re in the water or more if your skin feels hot. Be sure to schedule time in the shade and use items like sunglasses and hats for additional coverage from the sun.

Depending on the severity of your illness, you should alert the staff at the resort so they can assist you in finding medical care and make a report if the illness is related to your stay. Some resorts may offer medical services on location and can transfer you to a specialist if required.

Depending on the severity of your illness, you have a few options in finding medical care. Larger resorts often have medical staff to treat common sicknesses like dehydration, sun burns and nauseous stomachs. If more extensive care is needed, you’ll want to find a healthcare facility to be seen at. Travel Guard’s specially trained medical assistance representatives can help you with finding appropriate medical care and locating an English-speaking doctor or assisting with translation if necessary.

After you’ve seen a doctor and been evaluated, be sure and follow doctor’s orders when it comes to recovering. It can be hard to take it easy while on vacation, but a day or two of rest could make all the difference.

If you purchased a travel insurance plan before your trip, you’ll be able to file a claim for certain emergency medical expenses that you’ve incurred. Keep copies of receipts, invoices and medical reports. And, if you miss prepaid nonrefundable excursions because of being sick, you can include those in your claim when you file.