Travel Health: Mexico
Essential vaccines, malaria advice, and health guidance for Mexico travellers.
Mexico
Central AmericaMexico is an increasingly popular destination for British travellers, offering stunning beaches in Cancún and the Riviera Maya, vibrant culture in Mexico City and Oaxaca, and ancient Mayan ruins. While resort areas are generally well-maintained, travellers should be aware of mosquito-borne diseases, food and waterborne illness, and altitude sickness at higher elevations. We recommend a travel health consultation at least 4–6 weeks before departure.
Recommended Vaccines for Mexico
Hepatitis A
Recommended for all travellers. Spread through contaminated food and water.
Typhoid
Recommended, especially if eating outside major international hotels or visiting rural areas.
Hepatitis B
Recommended for longer stays or if you may require medical treatment abroad.
Rabies
Consider if visiting rural areas, caves (bat exposure), or engaging in outdoor activities.
DTP Booster
Ensure routine diphtheria, tetanus and polio vaccinations are current.
MMR
Ensure you've had two doses — measles outbreaks have been reported in Mexico.
Cholera
Consider for humanitarian workers or travel to areas with limited sanitation.
Malaria Risk in Mexico
Malaria risk in Mexico is low and limited to certain rural areas, particularly in the states of Chiapas, Chihuahua, Durango, Nayarit, and Sinaloa. Major tourist destinations including Cancún, Riviera Maya, Mexico City, Puerto Vallarta, and Cabo San Lucas are considered malaria-free. Antimalarials may be recommended for jungle treks or rural visits. Mosquito bite prevention is essential due to dengue and Zika risk.
Key Health Risks
- Dengue fever — present throughout Mexico, including tourist areas. No widely available vaccine; prevention through bite avoidance.
- Zika virus — present in Mexico. Pregnant women or those planning pregnancy should seek specific advice.
- Travellers' diarrhoea — very common. 'Montezuma's Revenge' is one of the most frequent travel illnesses.
- Altitude sickness — Mexico City sits at 2,240m. Symptoms include headache, nausea, and breathlessness.
- Road traffic accidents — driving standards vary significantly. Use official taxis and reputable transport.
- Extreme sun exposure — UV levels are very high, especially at altitude and on the coast.