What health precautions should be taken when traveling to Belize?
The standards of health and hygiene on Ambergris Caye in Belize are high, similar to that of popular resort islands in the Caribbean. Not many visitors become ill from traveler’s diseases or from drinking the water. While malaria, dengue fever and other tropical diseases are present in Belize, they are rare in San Pedro, and as a practical matter many visitors to Ambergris Caye don’t get any special shots before they come. No shots are required for entry into Belize. However, it’s always a good idea to keep tetanus, polio, Hep A and B and other vaccinations up to date, and malaria prophylaxis may be advised for mainland travel; it is highly advised if you are going to remote areas or into Guatemala. Check with the U.S. Centers for Disease Controls, tel. 404-332-4559 for the latest information.
