Travel Vaccines and Advice for Belize
Belize is bursting with culture and tropical fun for all types of travellers. Whether exploring archaeological sites, studying culture or venturing in the wild, Belize has a bit of everything.
The district of Cayo is the perfect destination for history fans, archeologists at heart and for those who love to learn. The world famous Hol Chan Marine Reserve in San Pedro offers tourists the chance to swim with a variety of sea life, including rays and sharks. Travellers can also make their way to Belize City with its amazing museums and adventures.
Rich in culture, nature and adventure, Belize is the perfect destination for a every traveller.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Belize?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Belize
Do I Need a Passport or Visa for Belize?
What Is the Climate Like in Belize?
Is It Safe to Travel to Belize?
Snorkeling and Swimming in Belize
What Should I Pack for Belize?
Canadian Embassy in Belize
Do I Need Vaccines for Belize?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Belize. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Belize: typhoid, hepatitis A, polio, yellow fever, rabies, hepatitis B, influenza, pneumonia, meningitis, chickenpox, shingles, Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) and measles, mumps and rubella (MMR).
See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:
- Typhoid –
Food & Water –
Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. - Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travellers. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Required if arriving from a region with active polio transmission. Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended. - Yellow Fever –
Mosquito –
Required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Recommended for travellers to most regions. - Influenza –
Airborne –
Vaccine components change annually. - COVID-19 –
Airborne –
Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. - Pneumonia –
Airborne –
Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. - Meningitis –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. - Chickenpox –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. - Shingles –
Direct Contact –
Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended. - TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) –
Wounds & Airborne –
Only one adult booster of pertussis required. - Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) –
Various Vectors –
Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.
See the table below for more information:
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for Belize |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Typhoid | Food & Water | Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. |
| Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travellers. |
| Polio | Food & Water | Required if arriving from a region with active polio transmission. Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended. |
| Yellow Fever | Mosquito | Required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. |
| Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Recommended for travellers to most regions. |
Routine Vaccinations for Belize |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Influenza | Airborne | Vaccine components change annually. |
| COVID-19 | Airborne | Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. |
| Pneumonia | Airborne | Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. |
| Meningitis | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. |
| Chickenpox | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. |
| Shingles | Direct Contact | Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. |
| TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) | Wounds & Airborne | Only one adult booster of pertussis required. |
| Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) | Various Vectors | Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended. |
Specific Vaccine Information
- Typhoid – Typhoid, a potentially life-threatening illness caused by Salmonella Typhi, spreads through contaminated food and water in areas with poor sanitation. To prevent it, practice good hygiene and safe food and water precautions.
- Hepatitis A – Hepatitis A is a contagious liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus, typically spread through ingestion of contaminated food or water, or close contact with an infected person. Symptoms include fatigue, stomach pain, and jaundice. The hepatitis A vaccine provides effective prevention against the virus. It is administered in a series of shots, usually starting in childhood, and is recommended for travel to areas with high infection rates.
- Rabies – Rabies is a deadly viral illness transmitted mainly through animal bites. Vaccination is pivotal, with pre-exposure and post-exposure options available to protect against this potentially fatal disease.
- Hepatitis B – Hepatitis B prevention relies on vaccination as the most effective measure, recommended for all travellers and critical for healthcare workers. Practicing safe sex and using sterile equipment for body modifications are also key in reducing transmission risks.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are viral infections that spread easily. Vaccination with the MMR vaccine is the PHAC’s top recommendation for preventing these diseases. It offers comprehensive protection against all three viruses, ensuring the safety of both individuals and the community.
There is a risk of contracting the Zika virus in Belize. Be sure to use mosquito repellents, netting and wear protective clothing. Malaria and dengue are also present in some regions. Antimalarials may be recommended based on your itinerary. Speak with a travel health specialist to learn more.
Visit our vaccinations page to learn more. Travel safely with Passport Health and schedule your appointment today by calling or book online now.
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Belize
Prevent Bug Bites in Belize
To ward off bug bites, follow PHAC advice: wear long clothing, use screens, and remove standing water. Opt for EPA-registered repellents with DEET, picaridin, or OLE for protection. If bitten, wash the area, avoid scratching, and apply remedies. Seek medical help for severe reactions.
Food and Water Safety in Belize
When abroad, prioritize food safety by adhering to PHAC guidelines: opt for fully cooked dishes, steer clear of raw seafood, and choose eateries with good hygiene practices. Stick to bottled beverages, be cautious with ice, and drink alcohol responsibly. Prevent travellers’ diarrhea through vigilant hand hygiene and avoiding unsanitary street food.
Infections To Be Aware of in Belize
- Chagas disease (American Trypanosomiasis) – Chagas disease spreads through triatomine bugs’ bites and can lead to serious health issues. Prevention includes insecticide use and insect avoidance.
- Dengue – Dengue fever, a viral infection spread by mosquitoes, is characterized by symptoms like high fever and rash. Prevention involves protective measures against mosquito bites and eliminating breeding sites. For those affected, seeking prompt medical care, staying hydrated, and using specific pain relievers under guidance is essential for recovery.
- Leishmaniasis – The transmission of leishmaniasis primarily occurs through infected sand fly bites, with other routes of transmission possible. Preventing the disease involves minimizing exposure to sand flies. Early detection and treatment can prevent serious symptoms.
- Zika – The Zika virus, transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, poses risks such as birth defects and sexual transmission. Preventing Zika involves using repellent, practicing safe sex, and eliminating mosquito breeding sites.
Do I Need a Passport or Visa for Belize?
Canadian citizens do not need visas for tourists or business visits of up to thirty days, but they must have onward or return air tickets within 30 days and proof of sufficient funds to maintain themselves while in Belize.
You must have a valid passport to enter Belize, with at least six months before expiration.
Belize Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Belize? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | |
|
| Vaccinations | |
|
Sources: Embassy of Belize and Canadian Travel and Tourism
If you enter the country by land, extra fees may apply. There is also an exit fee of $40 USD when leaving Belize.
Visit the Canadian Travel and Tourism website for more information on entry and exit requirements.
What Is the Climate Like in Belize?
The climate in Belize is tropical and warm. The country’s dry season ranges from about February to April, the rainy season from May to December. Even in the cooler months (December to February) the average temperatures are around 20.
While the climate is consistent throughout Belize, the weather may vary by region. Here is what to expect in a few tourist destinations:
- Belize City – Temperatures remain pretty consistent from month to month. Summers can be hot in the low-30’s with winters in the mid-20’s. Belize City has a short dry season with rain throughout the rest of the year.
- Belmopan – The capital of Belize experiences frequent rains. The temperature is warm, with highs in the low-30’s.
- San Ignacio – While rain is abundant during this region’s wet season, it is drier than areas like Belize City. Temperatures range from the low-20’s to low-30’s.
Is It Safe to Travel to Belize?
There are high levels of criminal activity in Belize. The most troubled areas are southern Belize City and along the country’s borders. These areas should be avoided if possible.
Tourists are prime targets for crime. Petty theft, pick-pocketing, credit card fraud and similar crime is not uncommon. Various cases of sexual harassment do occur, especially when travelling alone or in small groups. When going out, never go out on your own and stay with as many people that you trust as you can.
Crime rates remain high in Belize. The majority of crimes are reportedly unsolved. It is difficult for local police to investigate and prosecute many of the reported incidents. Travel with care and always be aware of your surroundings.
Snorkeling and Swimming in Belize
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The beaches of Belize are blue, bright and beautiful. The waters teem with sea creatures and corals, a kaleidoscope of colors and life. It’s no wonder that tourists come from around the globe to snorkel and swim in the oceans around Belize. Some of the most popular spots include the Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Ambergris Caye.
Snorkeling can bring you face-to-face with situations that can overwhelm the unprepared. Make sure the equipment you rent or buy, such as the snorkel and your swimming fins, are high-quality. A good snorkel will not allow water to come down the breathing tube, and the right fins will protect your feet and save you valuable energy while swimming.
Secure all dangling or loose aspects of your gear, as it can damage the reefs or catch on animals. Do not touch any of the wildlife you encounter while snorkeling or swimming in Belize waters. This can stress the animal and many of them could injure you.
Do not touch any of the coral reefs. They are fragile, and any part of the reef that is touched will die.
What Should I Pack for Belize?
Besides travel documents and medications, there are some other key items to make sure are in your luggage.
- Insect Repellent – With Zika, dengue and malaria in Belize, you should pack bug spray. Packing a repellent with at least 20%-30% DEET will help keep perilous pests away.
- Camera – You will want to bring a camera to snap photos of the Mayan ruins, the ocean, the jungle, the animals and all the other wonders Belize has to offer.
- Airy Clothing and Shorts – While you may want to bring some nicer clothes for going out, days will be hot and humid. Wearing shorts and loose clothing allows your skin to breath and will keep you cool.
- Sunscreen – Pack sunscreen to protect your skin and prevent sunburn. Even if it is rainy, your skin may still be damaged in the warm, tropical temperatures.
- Snorkeling or Swim Gear – If you know that you plan to swim or snorkel, save money and peace of mind by bringing your preferred gear with you. If you know you will be snorkeling, consider packing your own snorkel and swim fins. Always bring more than one bathing suit.
Canadian Embassy in Belize
Canadian consular services can help travellers with many issues they may face including passport services. Once in Belize, the information for the Canadian consulate is:
Canadian Embassy Belmopan
The Renaissance Tower of Belize
# 8 Newtown Barracks
Belize City, Belize
Tel.: 501 223-1060
Stay safe abroad with Passport Health. Call or book online now and start travelling safely today!
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Belize
“Went in and got my consultation for my trip to Belize. Person who attended to me was very helpful in going through all the details!”
“I felt very relaxed and informed to make a decision on which vaccines were necessary for my trip to Belize. The nurse was wonderful and super comforting after getting my needle.”
“Excellent service. Online forms and booking was very easy. Meeting was on time and got right to the point. Explanations on the risks for the areas in Belize were clear and easy to follow. I appreciated the clear instructions for the prescribed medications. Quick, efficient and friendly staff.”
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