A Quick Medical Prep Guide for Traveling to Mexico

Wed. Mar/20th/2018.


A Quick Medical Prep Guide for Traveling to Mexico

From the spicy foods to long flights & the bacteria found in the water, international travelers run the risk of getting sick when coming to Mexico.

No matter how resilient your immune system is, introducing new bacteria means the immune system evolving - and not always in the most favorable way.

However, there are a few precautions you can take to avoid even the sneakiest bacteria from ruining your already too-short trip to this country; heres a short list of tips to help you & your immune system be better prepared for international travel:

Preparation Tips


  • Stock up on vitamins before arrival.
  • Be prepared to have accidents or medical symptoms arise while traveling, and expect to use a pharmacy that doesn't speak English to get your meds. In Mexico, almost all medications are available at pharmacies OTC. Know what your frequent refills are and have a plan of how to translate that in a place with no Wi-Fi.
  • Talk to your doctor about the flu vaccine the flu strain is different in every country, be sure to ask if they recommend getting it in your country or once you arrive to your destination.
  • Research! What type of vaccines does the CDC recommend for the area? Should you get them? Ask your doctor.
  • Give yourself a chance to adapt to your new environment. Dont book a full itinerary for the first week. Relax, enjoy where you are, adjust to the time change and drink plenty of water.
  • Only drink bottled water and brush your teeth with it. Be mindful in the shower; keep eyes and mouth closed.
  • The ice in Mexico is actually safe and most often just a myth, however be careful of fresh fruits and veggies served in restaurants, and use Microdyne to clean produce you buy at the store.
  • Know the location of the nearest hospital in case of emergency.
  • Follow the rules of hygiene as if you were serving food. Keep your hand out of your face, carry hand sanitizer, and wash your hands frequently.
  • Bring a first aid kit with you, including over the counter meds, prescription antibiotics and triple antibiotics.
  • Be aware of food sanitation. You are no longer in the US, or whatever comfort zone you call home. If it looks dirty, it is. If no one else is eating there, theres a reason
  • Dont forget to get enough rest. This is your vacation, after all.
Follow these few tips and when in doubt ask your doctor.

You can never be too careful with your health, and you dont want to risk the chance of spending your entire vacation in your hotel bed!

Also, check here for a complete guide on preparing for traveling to Mexico, including Visas, packing guides, flight hacking & more!


Thanks for reading!

Written by: Dez of My Deztination.


Read More Blog Entries


Hospital & Emergency Info for Expats & Locals in Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta has many medical centers available for traveling expats & locals alike, with trusted Doctors & medical staff to help you get back to your vacation.



Health Effects When Visiting Puerto Vallarta

A trip to beautiful Puerto Vallarta is not only an excellent gift for yourself or a loved one...






Carnaval 2018 Puerto Vallarta

New Orleans put Mardi gras on the map & is celebrated in many cities around the world, but Puerto Vallarta brings this celebration to a whole new level!






Properties of the week


Condo Nayri 234

Puerto Vallarta, Jal.

NAYRI Life & Spa is one of the few privileged properties located just a few steps off the famous Los Muertos Beach in downtown Puerto Vallarta.

  • 4 Guests
  • 2 Bedroom
  • 2.5 Bathrooms

Price $300/night

Condo-Nayri-102

Puerto Vallarta, Jal.

NAYRI Life & Spa is one of the few privileged properties located just a few steps off the famous Los Muertos Beach in downtown Puerto Vallarta.

  • 2 Guests
  • 1 Bedroom
  • 1.5 Bathrooms

Price $180/night

V399 501

Puerto Vallarta, Jal.

The unit combines luxury and comfort. This magnificent condominium have one of the best locations in town, proximity to the Ocean, Restaurants and Cafes, Shopping, Bars.

  • 2 Guests
  • 1 Bedroom
  • 1 Bathrooms

Price $210/night


Back To Topics