When planning a holiday to Mexico, there are several factors that must be considered, including obtaining the necessary travel documents and potential vaccinations required for the Central American country. These must always be evaluated by a doctor, keeping in mind the specific traveler’s circumstances.
However, there are some recommended vaccinations for Mexico that all visitors should be aware of.
On this page, readers will find useful information regarding routine and optional vaccinations for a holiday in Mexico, including when to talk to a physician and whether babies and children should get vaccinated for Mexico.
Do You Need Any Vaccinations to Go to Mexico?
Yes, most foreign visitors will find that they need to get up-to-date with vaccinations and/or get vaccinated for some diseases for the first time. This must be decided on a case-by-case basis.
When deciding whether to prescribe shots, the doctor will consider the following factors:
- The traveler’s age and overall health
- What areas in Mexico they plan to explore
- What type of accommodation they prefer (for example, hotels or camping)
- What activities they will engage in
- Any pre-existing conditions or health risk factors
Routine Vaccinations for Mexico
All those wishing to tour Mexico should be up-to-date with the below routine vaccinations:
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR): One-time adult booster
- Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis (TDAP): 1 adult booster for pertussis
- Chickenpox: Given to those who have never been infected nor vaccinated
- Shingles: May still be needed even if the traveler already had shingles
- Pneumonia: Necessary for those aged 65 and over. 2 separate shots
- Influenza: This will depend on the specific year one decides to travel
- Meningitis: Given to those who have not been vaccinated
- Polio: 1 adult booster
Recommended Vaccinations for Mexico
Some vaccinations are recommended to all visitors. Others should be considered depending on the travel itinerary and activities. Find them below:
- Hepatitis A: Recommended to all travelers
- Hepatitis B: Recommended to most visitors
- Typhoid: Shots or oral vaccine. Recommended to some vacationers
- Cholera: Recommended only to those planning to visit heavily affected areas
- Rabies: Suggested to those who intend to be in contact with animals and/or will remain in Mexico for long periods of time
Some of the above diseases can be prevented with behavior as they spread through food and water, bodily fluids, or by getting in contact with animals.
If the foreign vacationer intends to visit low-risk areas, not engage in sexual activities, and consume safe and clean food and water, for example, it may not be necessary to get vaccinated. For example, the vaccinations for Cancun may be different from those required for Chiapas.
Malaria is a risk in some Mexican regions. Therefore, it may be advisable for some holidaymakers to take antimalarials.
Dengue and the Zika virus are also present in some territories. These represent a risk especially for pregnant women. It is recommended to use mosquito repellent and nets while in Mexico.
Yellow fever certificates are not necessary to enter Mexico.
How Long Before Traveling to Mexico Do I Need Vaccinations?
Different vaccinations will require different times. However, as a rule of thumb, it is advisable that travelers see a physician at least 6-8 weeks prior to departure. This will allow for all vaccinations to be administered in time.
Please note that it may be necessary to return to the clinic or doctor’s office several times before leaving to get the shots at the right moment.
How long do vaccinations for Mexico last?
While some vaccinations last a lifetime, others must be repeated after 1 or more years, or even in a matter of months. Please consult a doctor before every trip abroad.
Vaccinations for Mexico for babies and children
Although breast milk is full of beneficial and immune-boosting nutrients, the first vaccines babies and young children are administered are crucial for their health and protection from harmful diseases.
In Mexico, vaccination is mandatory and free for all Mexican babies and children, who receive a vaccination card. Thanks to this policy, the country has eradicated diseases like Measles, Diphtheria, and polio in the 1990s.
The most common vaccines in Mexico for children under 5 are:
- Hepatitis A
- Hepatitis B
- Rotavirus
- TDAP
- Influenza
- MMR
- Chickenpox
Babies and children should be up-to-date with their routine vaccinations before traveling to Mexico.
Moreover, keep in mind that children may face higher risks than adults due to their natural behavior. For example:
- Kids tend to play more with animals and may not report bites. That is why rabies shot may be recommended
- Children may easily cut or scratch themselves while playing. That is why hepatitis B may be advisable
It is important to talk to a pediatrician before taking babies and children abroad.
