Mexican Vacation Requires Some Health Planning

Q:  As the temperatures drop, we are considering a trip to a popular tourist destination in Mexico. We’ve heard stories of travelers contracting mild to severe diarrhea. What kinds of precautions can we take to make our trip safe and enjoyable and what can we do if one of us gets sick?

A:  As I write this, the morning temperature is 4 degrees and a trip to sunny Mexico sounds especially appealing. My wife and I have taken several trips to Mexico and never had any difficulties that prevented us from being able to fully enjoy our time away. Taking a few simple measures will allow you to take advantage of the time away while avoiding any illnesses.

• Wash your hands often with soap and water. If neither is handy, bring pre-moistened towelettes or a bottle of antibacterial hand cleansing gel – many of these are now available for use without water.
• Eat only thoroughly cooked foods or fruits and vegetables that you have peeled yourself.
• Don’t eat food purchased from street vendors.
• Don’t drink beverages with ice.
• Drink only bottled water or beverages that are carbonated and have come from bottles and cans.
• Avoid dairy products unless you know they have been pasteurized.
• Don’t swim in fresh water if possible (and if you do, try not to swallow any water); salt water is usually safer.
• Don’t handle animals – especially monkeys, dogs and cats – to avoid scratches or bites that can lead to serious diseases such as rabies and plague.
• Bring over-the-counter anti-diarrheal medicines with you or talk to your doctor about prescribing a one-time dose of ciprofloxacin to be taken if you become ill.
• Some recommend taking two Pepto-Bismol tablets three times a day to prevent illness. The only side effect is that it turns your tongue and stool a blackish color.
• Make sure you bring sufficient amounts of all your prescription medications with you. Carry them with you rather than storing them in your luggage where you might be separated from them when you need them.

The vast majority of Mexican tourist spots have little risk for malaria or other insect-borne diseases. You also do not need vaccinations. If you are taking a trip to a more exotic, less traveled, or more remote area, check the Centers for Disease Control web site at www.cdc.gov and go to the Traveler’s Health section, where more detailed information is available.

Bon voyage!

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