Patients Beyond Borders: Monterrey, Mexico Edition

part three
Immunizations
The US Department of State does not currently list any HIV/AIDS entry
restrictions for visitors to, or foreign residents in, Mexico. The US Centers
for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends routine immunizations
for all travelers. Hepatitis A immunization is also recommended
for travelers to Mexico. The typhoid vaccine is recommended for all unvaccinated
people traveling to Mexico and Central America, especially if
staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities, villages, or rural
areas where exposure might occur through food or water. To get the most
benefit from your vaccines, see a healthcare provider at least 4–6 weeks before
your trip. Visit the CDC’s website at cdc.gov/travel for its latest travel
health guidelines.
Health
Traveler’s diarrhea is the most common travel-related ailment. Most cases
of traveler’s diarrhea are mild and do not require either antibiotics or antidiarrheal
drugs. Adequate fluid intake is essential. If diarrhea is severe or
bloody, or if fever occurs with shaking chills, or if abdominal pain becomes
marked, or if diarrhea persists for more than 72 hours, medical
attention should be sought.
The best way to prevent diarrhea is to be very careful about the water
you drink. In most hotels and restaurants, you will be served purified water.
If in doubt, ask for it: “Agua purificada, por favor.” Refrain from drinking
water from the tap in a private home or condominium, just to be on the
safe side. Buy bottled water, and drink a lot of it.
Though effective, antibiotics are not recommended prophylactically
(i.e., to prevent diarrhea before it occurs) because of the risk of adverse
side effects, though this approach may be warranted in special situations,
such as for immunocompromised travelers.
82 Patients Beyond Borders