Mexico Health Guide

LA SALUD

IMMUNIZATIONS

For Mexico Immunizations are not obligated. But to make sure we recommend diphtheria- and polio/ tetanus immunizations. You should also be protected against hepatitis and typhus if you plan on eating street food and to stay at low budget hostels. For your own safety you should always take your International certificates of vaccination with you. The medical care in Mexico is very updated and competent. Especially at touristy places you don´t have to worry about hygiene and the competence of doctors. In a lot of bigger cities and hospitals like Mexico City, Monterrey and Querétaro some medical standards such as equipment and technology are even better than in Europe!

DRINKING WATER

Drinking tap water is not recommended in Mexico, if it hasn't been cooked before drinking. For very sensitive stomachs water from the shop also be used to brush the teeth. Be careful with icecubes in less touristic areas. However normally you don´t have to worri because all restaurants and bars use readymade ice cubes which are made from clean water.

DIARRHEA

One of the most common diseases which a Mexico journey could cause is the Revenge of Montezuma. Climate change, clock change, change of food and foreign bacteria could cause these displeasing symptoms of diarrhea. But don´t worry, every pharmacy has the right medication. Mostly European medication is useless because of the bacterial differences. To prevent getting diarrhea, avoid drinking any tap water, make sure that food you eat is well cooked and that unpeeled fruits and vegetables are disinfected before eating. Even if food smells tasty, don´t risk your health and be careful with exotic food.

COLDS

Colds are mostly caused by to cold air conditions and misinterpretations of the climate. Because a lot of places in Mexico are located at a high altitude, you should get informed about the climate of your destination. It's recommended to always take warm clothing with you because of the cold temperatures in the air-conditioned busses and public buildings.

TRAVEL MEDICATION

The pharmacies or "Farmacias", which you can find everywhere in Mexico, provide a lot of standard medication, as well as US American and European products. Only the locals might call them a little differently. If you prefer your usual pharmaceuticals, we recommend the following basic equipment:

- Pain reliever (Buscopan, Dolormin, Paracetamol etc.)
- Antibiotic (after consultation with doctor)
- Medication against diarrhea
- Medication against constipation
- Ointment or gel against mosquito bites
- Hydrocortisone-ointment againat heavy itching
- Nasal spray
- Pastilles against a sore throat
- Cough medicine
- Medication against motion sickness
- Sunscreen

- Insect repellant

TRAVEL INSURANCE

Before starting your journey, make sure you have a Travel Insurance, if it is not yet included in your travel package. Even though you have to pay the consultation of an doctor cash, with a receipt your travel insurance pays your bill when you return to your country.

For Mexico Immunizations are not obligated. But to make sure we recommend diphtheria- and polio/ tetanus immunizations. You should also be protected against hepatitis and typhus if you plan on eating street food and to stay at low budget hostels. For your own safety you should always take your International certificates of vaccination with you. The medical care in Mexico is very updated and competent. Especially at touristy places you don´t have to worry about hygiene and the competence of doctors. In a lot of bigger cities hospitals like Mexico City, Monterrey and Querétaro some medical standards such as equipment and technology are even better than in Europe!