Essential Travel Vaccinations for a Holiday in Mexico

Planning a trip to Mexico is an exciting experience, whether you are heading to the white sandy beaches of Cancún, exploring ancient Mayan ruins, or venturing into the vibrant streets of Mexico City. However, before you set off, it is crucial to ensure you are fully protected against potential health risks. At Doncaster Chemist, we offer expert guidance on Mexico holiday vaccinations, helping you prepare for a safe and healthy trip.

Recommended Vaccinations for Travelling to Mexico

The UK government and health authorities recommend several vaccinations for travellers visiting Mexico. While some are available on the NHS, others may require private vaccination depending on your travel plans and activities.

Core Vaccinations

These vaccinations are recommended for all travellers to Mexico, regardless of the type of trip:

• Hepatitis A – A virus transmitted through contaminated food and water, particularly in areas with poor sanitation. A single dose offers short-term protection, but a booster after six months provides long-term immunity.
• Typhoid – Also spread through contaminated food and water, typhoid fever can cause severe illness. A single dose vaccine is available, with booster doses recommended for long-term travellers.
• Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Polio (Td/IPV) – The combined booster is essential if you have not had one in the past ten years, as tetanus bacteria can enter the body through cuts or wounds.

Additional Vaccinations Based on Travel Type

The need for additional vaccinations depends on the activities you plan to do while in Mexico.

• Hepatitis B – Recommended for travellers engaging in outdoor activities, healthcare work, or those who may have close contact with locals. Hepatitis B is transmitted through infected blood and bodily fluids, so it is also advisable for those considering tattoos or piercings abroad.
• Rabies – If you are planning outdoor adventures, hiking, or visiting rural areas where there is a risk of animal bites, a rabies vaccination is recommended. Mexico has a presence of rabies in animals such as dogs, bats, and other wildlife.
• Cholera – While rare in most tourist areas, cholera can occur in regions with poor sanitation. Travellers visiting remote areas may benefit from this vaccine.

When to Get Vaccinated Before Travelling to Mexico

To ensure full protection, it is best to start your Mexico holiday vaccinations well in advance of your trip. Some vaccines require multiple doses over several weeks.

• Hepatitis A and Typhoid – Ideally at least two weeks before travel
• Hepatitis B – A series of three injections, best started one to six months before travel
• Rabies – Requires three doses over a 28-day period, so plan at least a month in advance
• Tetanus booster – Can be given anytime before travel if your last dose was over ten years ago

If your trip is last-minute, don’t worry – some vaccines can still offer partial protection even if taken closer to departure. Speak to the team at Doncaster Chemist for personalised advice.

Special Considerations for Families Travelling to Mexico

Travelling with children requires additional planning when it comes to vaccinations. Many routine childhood vaccines already provide some protection, but you may need to check if boosters or additional vaccinations are required.

• Children under 5: More vulnerable to food and waterborne illnesses, so Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccines are strongly recommended.
• Children engaging in outdoor activities: Rabies may be necessary, particularly if they are likely to interact with animals.
• Routine childhood immunisations: Ensure children are up to date with MMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella) as outbreaks still occur in some parts of Mexico.

Additional Travel Health Tips for Mexico

Aside from vaccinations, there are other key steps you can take to stay healthy on your trip:

• Avoid drinking tap water – Stick to bottled or purified water to reduce the risk of stomach infections.
• Be cautious with street food – While delicious, some street food may not always be prepared in hygienic conditions.
• Protect against mosquito bites – Mexico has a presence of mosquito-borne illnesses such as Dengue fever and Zika virus, so use insect repellent and wear long-sleeved clothing.
• Consider malaria prevention – Although the risk is low in most tourist areas, some rural regions have a small malaria risk, and anti-malarial tablets may be required.

Booking Your Travel Vaccinations with Doncaster Chemist

At Doncaster Chemist, we offer a comprehensive travel vaccination service, ensuring you receive the recommended Mexico holiday vaccinations based on your itinerary and personal health needs. We offer personalised travel consultations and travel health advice tailored to your trip, ensuring that you enjoy peace of mind from your first appointment until you arrive back in the UK. We also provide flexible appointment times, including evenings and weekends, to fit in with your busy life.

If you are planning a trip to Mexico, don’t leave your vaccinations until the last minute. Contact Doncaster Chemist today to book your travel health consultation and ensure you are fully protected before you go.

Safe travels!

This blog was written on behalf of Doncaster Chemist by Pharmacy Mentor.