Health And Safety Concerns In Cancun

When travelling to Cancun you’ll need to be aware of a few major health and safety concerns so that you can avoid the most common illnesses. While the locals have built resistance to some of these conditions, as a traveler, you’ll want to take precautions before your arrival and during your stay in order to stay healthy and get the most out of your Cancun vacation. Here’s a few important tips for health and safety in for those travelling to Cancun.

Immunizations and Health Precautions

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, travelers’ diarrhea and malaria are the two major health concerns when traveling to Mexico and Central America. Along with anti-malarial medication, the CDC recommends the following immunizations: hepatitis A and B, typhoid and rabies, if you will be in contact with wild animals during your stay.

Travelers’ Diarrhea in Cancun

Even the most seasoned traveler can fall prey to travelers’ diarrhea, but the right precautions will prevent any potential problems with local water and cuisine. To prevent travelers’ diarrhea, the CDC recommends that you drink, cook, brush your teeth and wash your hands with bottled water, avoid buying food from street vendors, make sure that food is thoroughly cooked and any fruit is completely peeled and washed in bottled water. Avoid milk that is not pasteurized and do not eat food from any unknown source. Also, keep in mind that you will most likely be bathing in local water, so avoid getting it in your eyes and mouth.

Malaria in Mexico

Malaria is present in Mexico and Central America. This disease is contracted by humans through infected mosquitoes and its symptoms include fever, chills, exhaustion and anemia. For travel in Mexico, the CDC recommends the use of Chloroquine, an oral anti-malarial drug taken weekly. Follow the instructions on the prescription closely, as most anti-malarial medications should be taken before, during and after travel. Also, be sure to wear insect repellent on any exposed skin and pack long pants and long-sleeved shirts to prevent bug bites.

Personal Safety Precautions

When traveling, do not carry all your money, credit cards and travelers’ checks in one place. Splitting them into several bags, while keeping some handy in your carry-on bag, will keep you from losing everything if your bags are lost or stolen. Also, having several different types of money will ensure that you will be prepared in any situation. Travelers’ checks are widely accepted in Mexico and the US dollar is accepted in some cases. However, be cautious when paying for things and do not wave around large amounts of cash or travelers checks. Leave valuables, such as jewelry, extra cash and credit cards in the hotel safe during the day when you are away from your room.

As in most cities, personal safety precautions should be taken while traveling internationally. Avoid traveling alone after dark, especially in unfamiliar surroundings. You may also want to consider purchasing a money bag or belt that can be worn close to the skin, to avoid carrying all your valuables in one bag while you are sightseeing or shopping. It is also important to always be aware of your surroundings and keep your bag, backpack or shopping bags close to you at all times.