Vaccinations for Mexico

Is a viral infection that attacks the liver, normally causing unpleasant symptoms for a few months. It can initially cause flu-like symptoms and later jaundice, itchy skin and swelling and tenderness around the liver. Hepatitis A is spread in the faeces of an infected person (often via contaminated food and water) and the risk is highest in areas of Mexico with poor sanitation.

The hepatitis A vaccine can be administered on its own, or in combination with one other vaccine: either hepatitis B or typhoid.

Is a bacterial infection that gets into the skin through open wounds. It can affect the nerves, causing painful spasms and stiffness in the muscles. Tetanus is often found in soil and animal manure; you may be particularly at risk of tetanus infection if you are planning on spending time outdoors, working on the land or with animals.

The tetanus vaccine is often administered to travellers as part of the diphtheria, polio and tetanus booster. If you have never received the tetanus vaccine you may require up to three doses before you leave for Mexico, and more when you return.

Is a bacterial infection that can cause a fever, stomach pain and diarrhoea or constipation. In some cases, when left untreated, it can cause serious complications such as internal bleeding in the digestive system. Typhoid is spread in the faeces (and sometimes the urine) of an infected person. In areas of Mexico with poor sanitation, food and water can become contaminated and typhoid can spread.

The typhoid vaccine can be administered either on its own as a single injection, in combination with the hepatitis A vaccine (as a single injection), or as three capsules which are swallowed.

Is a bacterial infection spread in droplets from the nose or mouth, which are expelled in coughs and sneezes. It can cause a fever, sore throat and difficulty breathing; in more severe cases, diphtheria causes life-threatening complications such as myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscles). Diphtheria vaccination is recommended if you anticipate spending a lot of time in poor, overcrowded areas of Mexico.

If you have received all of your routine British immunisations, the simplest way to remain protected is to receive the diphtheria, polio and tetanus booster, which will protect you against all three diseases.

Is a serious viral infection which is nearly always fatal without vaccination and emergency treatment. The rabies virus is usually transmitted via the bite or scratch of an infected animal (normally a dog); people who develop rabies symptoms usually die from the disease. If you are bitten or scratched by an infected animal, you will need emergency treatment, whether you have received the vaccine or not. Treatment is easier to administer if you have already had the full course of the vaccine.

You should receive the vaccine in three separate injections over the course of a month. If you have previously received the full vaccine you can get a rabies booster, which is administered in one injection.

The rabies vaccine/booster is recommended if you anticipate spending time around wild animals during your stay in Mexico, particularly if you’re in an area with limited access to medical facilities.

Hepatitis B is a viral infection which is spread in blood and bodily fluids. If you have unprotected sex, get a tattoo or body piercing, or receive medical or dental treatment in an unhygienic environment you may be at risk of contracting Hep B while in Mexico.

Hepatitis B attacks the liver, initially causing flu-like symptoms and jaundice. Most people recover fully within a few months, but some develop chronic hepatitis which can lead to serious complications such as liver cancer and cirrhosis.

The hepatitis B vaccine is administered as three injections over the course of three to six months or several weeks depending on the current vaccination practise carried out at your time of travel. It can be given on its own or in combination with the hepatitis A vaccine.