Travel Vaccines and Advice for Mexico
Mexico is known for its warm weather, natural beauty, and rich culture. Travellers can experience breathtaking beaches, to local celebrations and unique culinary history.
Among the most popular destinations in Mexico are Acapulco, Cancun, Los Cabos, and Cozumel. There is plenty to see and explore all across the country, from the dense rain forests to the arid deserts.
One of the greatest draws of Mexico is the remnants of ancient civilizations. Beyond these civilizations, many of the colonial buildings from the Spanish-era remain untouched.
To get the full experience of Mexico, it is best to interact with the locals as much as possible. They are generally friendly, and very proud of their culture. Sit and enjoy some agave liquor with the locals, and you may find yourself wishing you didn’t have to leave.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Mexico?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Mexico
Health Notices and Outbreaks in Mexico
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Mexico?
What Is the Climate Like in Mexico?
How Safe Is Mexico?
Diving and Snorkeling in Mexico
What Should I Take to Mexico?
Canadian Embassy in Mexico
Do I Need Vaccines for Mexico?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Mexico. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Mexico: typhoid, cholera, hepatitis A, polio, 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. - Cholera –
Food & Water –
While rare in Mexico, cholera is present. Travellers should adhere to food and water precautions and consider vaccination. - Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travellers. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travellers to any destination. - 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 Mexico |
||
| 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. |
| Cholera | Food & Water | While rare in Mexico, cholera is present. Travellers should adhere to food and water precautions and consider vaccination. |
| Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travellers. |
| Polio | Food & Water | Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travellers to any destination. |
| 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 Mexico |
||
| 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 is transmitted via fecally contaminated food or water, causing severe symptoms. To prevent it, practice hand-washing, consume safe water and food, and consider vaccination, especially when travelling to high-risk areas.
- Hepatitis A – Hepatitis A spreads through contaminated food, water, and close contact. Protect yourself by getting vaccinated with the hepatitis A vaccine and maintaining proper hygiene. Vaccination is a critical step in preventing this contagious liver infection, according to health authorities.
- Rabies – Rabies is a deadly viral disease affecting mammals, including humans, primarily transmitted through bites or scratches from infected animals. Vaccination is key to preventing rabies, with pre-exposure shots effectively preventing infection.
- Hepatitis B – The hepatitis B vaccine is a vital tool in the prevention of this liver infection, recommended for all travellers and essential for healthcare workers and those at higher risk of exposure.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are infectious diseases that can easily spread. Vaccination remains the primary defense against these threats. The MMR vaccine, with its two-dose regimen, is a reliable way to bolster immunity and reduce the risk of infection and outbreaks.
Travellers’ diarrhea is a risk to travellers to all destinations, including Mexico. Take precautions by only eating from reputable establishments and be sure to bring a travellers’ diarrhea kit.
Malaria is a risk in some parts of Mexico. Speak with a travel health specialist about your itinerary and the potential need for antimalarials.
Mexico is an affected area of the Zika virus . Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should avoid travel to Mexico. Take extra precautions against Zika infection including insect repellents and mosquito netting.
Dengue is another mosquito-borne illness found in various parts of Mexico. Take the same precautions against this infection as you would Zika.
See our vaccinations page to learn more about these infections and vaccines. Ready to protect yourself? Book your travel health appointment today by calling or schedule online now.
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Mexico
Prevent Bug Bites in Mexico
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 Mexico
When travelling, prioritize food safety with PHAC’s advice: consume fully cooked foods, avoid raw seafood, and pick clean eateries. Opt for bottled drinks, exercise caution with ice, and practice responsible alcohol consumption. Prevent travellers’ diarrhea by maintaining good hand hygiene and avoiding street food in unsanitary conditions.
Altitude Sickness in Mexico
Altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), arises at high elevations due to decreased oxygen levels. To prevent AMS, ascend gradually, stay hydrated, and consider medications like acetazolamide. If symptoms like headaches or fatigue develop, descend to lower altitudes for rest and recovery, seeking medical help if necessary.
Infections To Be Aware of in Mexico
- Avian/Bird Flu – Preventing avian flu requires a multifaceted approach, including poultry vaccination, rigorous biosecurity practices, safe handling and cooking of poultry products, early outbreak detection, and educating the public about the virus’s risks and prevention methods.
- Chagas disease (American Trypanosomiasis) – Chagas disease, also known as American Trypanosomiasis, is a tropical parasitic infection transmitted by kissing bugs. Preventing Chagas disease involves using repellents and avoiding contacting with the insects.
- Dengue – According to the PHAC, dengue fever, caused by a virus from mosquito bites, manifests through fever, headaches, and severe muscle pain. Preventative measures include using insect repellent and wearing protective clothing. While no specific treatment exists, early medical intervention can mitigate severe complications.
- Leishmaniasis – Leishmaniasis spreads via sand fly bites but can also be transmitted through other means. Prevention includes using insect repellents, covering up, and staying indoors during sand fly activity.
- Zika – Zika, a mosquito-borne virus, is primarily spread through mosquito bites and can cause serious health issues. Prevention strategies include using mosquito repellent and practicing safe sex.
Health Notices and Outbreaks in Mexico
- Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever – There are reports of Rocky Mountain spotted fever in Baja California. Most cases are in Tecate. Ticks spread the disease to humans through bites. Travellers are advised to use repellents while in rural areas. RMSF can be deadly. See a medical professional immediately if you develop flu-like symptoms while travelling to the region or within two weeks of returning home.
- Salmonella – Some travellers to Mexico have returned home with multidrug-resistant strains of Salmonella. Most infections are believed to have come from beef, cheese, beef jerky or dried beef. Travellers should take precautions to only eat food from reputable establishments and to wash their hands regularly. Avoiding raw or undercooked beef, or soft cheeses is advised.
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Mexico?
No visa is required to enter Mexico for business or tourism stays under 90 days. Upon arrival, those using a Canadian passport will be issued a tourist card. The cost is $20 USD but the fee is included in most airline tickets. Residents of Canada who are legal immigrants using foreign passports also do not need a visa for business or tourism visits to Mexico.
Mexico Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Mexico? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | |
|
| Vaccinations | ||
Sources: Embassy of Mexico and Canadian Travel and Tourism
Visit the Canadian Travel and Tourism website for more information on entry and exit requirements.
What Is the Climate Like in Mexico?
Because of its size, Mexico has a diverse climate.
The Tropic of Cancer splits the country into temperate and tropical zones. Regions north of the 24th parallel have a cooler climate during the winter months. Regions to the south have a more constant climate throughout the year. On the coast on both sides of Mexico, the climate is generally hot and humid, especially in the summer.
In contrast, Mexico City’s temperatures can drop to freezing in the winter. Areas of higher elevation can even see snow during these months. Most of the northwestern area of Mexico has a desert climate. The eastern coast has a tropical climate characterized by a wet season during the summer. Be sure to research the area that you are travelling to and bring appropriate clothing. Bring breathable clothing that you will not be adverse to sweating in.
How Safe Is Mexico?
Violence from drug cartels is a major problem in Mexico. Do not travel out alone after dark, especially in heavily populated urban areas. Always be alert, and look out for strange behavior. Keep track of your belongings, as pick-pocketing and other forms of petty theft are common. There have been instances of kidnappings by cartels in various parts of the country.
Possession of small amounts of narcotics is legal in Mexico, but it is best to avoid using drugs at all. The legal system is much harsher than in the United States. Consult with locals to find out where it is safe to travel without a guide, and what areas to avoid after the sun sets. They will be able to provide the most accurate information.
When swimming on the beach, look out for riptides. They can be difficult to detect but very strong. Be sure to use sunscreen, and be aware of jellyfish.
If you are travelling by bus, do not put your bag in the storage room of the bus. This is an easy way to have your belongings stolen. If you plan on using a taxi, call a taxi service and request one instead of hailing one from the street. Ride share services like Uber are available in Mexico.
Diving and Snorkeling in Mexico
Avoid an Embarrassing Stop
Over 70% of travellers
will have diarrhea.
Get protected with Passport Health’s
travellers’ diarrhea kit!
Mexico is an excellent destination for diving and snorkeling. With beautiful waters ripe with wildlife, there is plenty to see in the depths.
If you have a taste for danger, consider cage diving with Great White sharks off Guadalupe Island. You are outfitted with scuba gear, put into a metal cage, and lowered into the water. It is the closest you will be able to get to the sharks while remaining out of danger. It is not for the faint of heart.
If you are looking for a diverse array of aquatic life, look no further than the Sea of Cortez. It is very accessible to foreigners. It is a meeting point of tropical species from the south and species from the temperate zones of the north. This creates a unique ecosystem that will provide an unforgettable experience for travellers. There are plenty of local dive shops and places to charter a boat.
What Should I Take to Mexico?
Here are some essential items to consider for your trip to Mexico:
- Personal Hygiene Products – These can be expensive in Mexico, so it is best to bring them from home.
- Medications – Pharmacies are different in Mexico. It is safest to bring your medications with you from home.
- Close-toed shoes – It’s tempting to wear sandals, but fire ants and scorpions are a common problem.
- Breathable clothing – It can get quite hot in Mexico.
- Water purification tablets – It is recommended that you do not drink the tap water in Mexico. But, if absolutely necessary, it is best to have tablets on hand.
Canadian Embassy in Mexico
Canadian consular services can help travellers with many issues they may face including passport services. Once in Mexico, the information for the Canadian Embassy is:
Embassy of Canada in Mexico City
Schiller 529, Col. Bosque de Chapultepec (Polanco)
Del. Miguel Hidalgo
11580 Mexico City, D.F.
Mexico
Telephone: (55) 5724.7900
If you have any questions about travelling to Mexico or are wondering what shots you may need for your trip, schedule an appointment with your local Passport Health travel medicine clinic. Call us at or book online now and protect yourself today.
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Mexico
“Had a great consultation with the RN working this morning. She was prepared with an entire package for travellers to Mexico and went through all of the risks with me. She recommended the necessary vaccinations I have not received yet and administered them promptly and efficiently. I would definitely recommend this travel clinic to friends.”
“I went to the clinic for a Fluzone flu shot because no pharmacies or my doctor carried this vaccine. While I was there I also received another vaccination for my upcoming trip to Mexico. The nurse was very informative & ran through all the vaccinations I should have or need for my trip.”
“Excellent visit! I was unsure all that I needed for my move to Mexico – but the nurse explained everything thoroughly, and was super kind and patient as I asked questions and considered my options. I left feeling peaceful about my move, and more knowledgeable! Thank you!”
“The nurse did a great job in briefing us on the health risks and options for dealing with these risks for the part of Mexico we will be visiting. She answered all our questions and let us decide. Great work.”
“We were delighted to find a service that is a one-stop place to get all the vaccinations and health information that one needs to travel to new destinations where you are unsure of health risks. Our nurse was terrific and very thorough. We’re excited for our trip to Baja, Mexico!”
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