Please note: Due to increased travel demand, appointments are limited.
Schedule your appointment as soon as possible to ensure travel protection.


Travel Vaccines and Advice for Mexico
Mexico is known for its warm weather, natural beauty, and rich culture. Travelers can experience breathtaking beaches, to local celebrations and unique culinary history.
Among the most popular destinations in Mexico are Acapulco, Cancun, Los Cabos, and Cozumel. There is plenty to see and explore all across the country, from the dense rain forests to the arid deserts.
One of the greatest draws of Mexico is the remnants of ancient civilizations. Beyond these civilizations, many of the colonial buildings from the Spanish-era remain untouched.
To get the full experience of Mexico, it is best to interact with the locals as much as possible. They are generally friendly, and very proud of their culture. Sit and enjoy some agave liquor with the locals, and you may find yourself wishing you didn’t have to leave.
Do I Need Vaccines for Mexico?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Mexico. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Mexico: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, cholera, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia and influenza.
COVID-19 vaccination is recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. Check with your local Passport Health clinic if immunization is offered in your area.
See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:
- COVID-19 –
Airborne & Direct Contact –
Recommended for all unvaccinated individuals who qualify for vaccination - Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travelers - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Accelerated schedule available - Typhoid –
Food & Water –
Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. - Cholera –
Food & Water –
While rare in Mexico, cholera is present. Travelers should adhere to food and water precautions and consider vaccination. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travelers and those who may come in contact with animals. - Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) –
Various Vectors –
Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended. - TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) –
Wounds & Airborne –
Only one adult booster of pertussis required. - Chickenpox –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. - Shingles –
Direct Contact –
Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. - Pneumonia –
Airborne –
Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. - Influenza –
Airborne –
Vaccine components change annually. - Meningitis –
Airborne & Direct Contact –
Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended.
See the tables below for more information:
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for Mexico |
||
VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
---|---|---|
COVID-19 | Airborne & Direct Contact | Recommended for all unvaccinated individuals who qualify for vaccination |
Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travelers |
Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Accelerated schedule available |
Typhoid | Food & Water | Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. |
Cholera | Food & Water | While rare in Mexico, cholera is present. Travelers should adhere to food and water precautions and consider vaccination. |
Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travelers and those who may come in contact with animals. |
Routine Vaccinations for Mexico |
||
VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
---|---|---|
Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) | Various Vectors | Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended. |
TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) | Wounds & Airborne | Only one adult booster of pertussis required. |
Chickenpox | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. |
Shingles | Direct Contact | Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. |
Pneumonia | Airborne | Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. |
Influenza | Airborne | Vaccine components change annually. |
Meningitis | Airborne & Direct Contact | Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. |
Polio | Food & Water | Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended. |
Travelers’ diarrhea is a risk to travelers to all destinations, including India. Take precautions by only eating from reputable establishments and be sure to bring a travelers’ diarrhea kit.
Malaria is a risk in some parts of Mexico. Speak with a travel health specialist about your itinerary and the potential need for antimalarials.
Mexico is an affected area of the Zika virus . Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should avoid travel to Mexico. Take extra precautions against Zika infection including insect repellents and mosquito netting.
Dengue is another mosquito-borne illness found in various parts of Mexico. Take the same precautions against this infection as you would Zika.
See our vaccinations page to learn more about these infections and vaccines. Ready to protect yourself? Book your travel health appointment today by calling or schedule online now.
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Mexico?
Travelers to Mexico do not need a visa for stays less than 180 days. If you plan to stay longer-term, a visa will be required before entry.
Mexico Entry Requirements |
||
Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Mexico? | |
---|---|---|
Passport | ![]() |
|
Tourist Visa | ||
Business Visa | ||
Vaccinations |
Sources: Embassy of Mexico and U.S. State Department
What is the Climate Like in Mexico?
Because of its size, Mexico has a diverse climate.
The Tropic of Cancer splits the country into temperate and tropical zones. Regions north of the 24th parallel have a cooler climate during the winter months. Regions to the south have a more constant climate throughout the year. On the coast on both sides of Mexico, the climate is generally hot and humid, especially in the summer.
In contrast, Mexico City’s temperatures can drop to freezing in the winter. Areas of higher elevation can even see snow during these months. Most of the northwestern area of Mexico has a desert climate. The eastern coast has a tropical climate characterized by a wet season during the summer. Be sure to research the area that you are traveling to and bring appropriate clothing. Bring breathable clothing that you will not be adverse to sweating in.
How Safe is Mexico?
Violence from drug cartels is a major problem in Mexico. Do not travel out alone after dark, especially in heavily populated urban areas. Always be alert, and look out for strange behavior. Keep track of your belongings, as pick-pocketing and other forms of petty theft are common. There have been instances of kidnappings by cartels in various parts of the country.
Possession of small amounts of narcotics is legal in Mexico, but it is best to avoid using drugs at all. The legal system is much harsher than in the United States. Consult with locals to find out where it is safe to travel without a guide, and what areas to avoid after the sun sets. They will be able to provide the most accurate information.
When swimming on the beach, look out for riptides. They can be difficult to detect but very strong. Be sure to use sunscreen, and be aware of jellyfish.
If you are traveling by bus, do not put your bag in the storage room of the bus. This is an easy way to have your belongings stolen. If you plan on using a taxi, call a taxi service and request one instead of hailing one from the street. Ride share services like Uber are available in Mexico.
Diving and Snorkeling in Mexico
Avoid an Embarrassing Stop
Over 70% of travelers
will have diarrhea.
Get protected with Passport Health’s
travelers’ diarrhea kit!
Mexico is an excellent destination for diving and snorkeling. With beautiful waters ripe with wildlife, there is plenty to see in the depths.
If you have a taste for danger, consider cage diving with Great White sharks off Guadalupe Island. You are outfitted with scuba gear, put into a metal cage, and lowered into the water. It is the closest you will be able to get to the sharks while remaining out of danger. It is not for the faint of heart.
If you are looking for a diverse array of aquatic life, look no further than the Sea of Cortez. It is very accessible to foreigners. It is a meeting point of tropical species from the south and species from the temperate zones of the north. This creates a unique ecosystem that will provide an unforgettable experience for travelers. There are plenty of local dive shops and places to charter a boat.
What Should I Take To Mexico?
Here are some essential items to consider for your trip to Mexico:
- Personal Hygiene Products – These can be expensive in Mexico, so it is best to bring them from home.
- Medications – Pharmacies are different in Mexico. It is safest to bring your medications with you from home.
- Close-toed shoes – It’s tempting to wear sandals, but fire ants and scorpions are a common problem.
- Breathable clothing – It can get quite hot in Mexico.
- Water purification tablets – It is recommended that you do not drink the tap water in Mexico. But, if absolutely necessary, it is best to have tablets on hand.
U.S. Embassy in Mexico
All Americans visiting Mexico should register online with the U.S. Department of State before departure. This will inform the office of your travel plans within the country and will allow them to reach out in the case of an emergency or evacuation.
Once in Mexico, the information for the U.S. Embassy is:
U.S. Embassy Mexico City
Paseo de la Reforma 305
Colonia Cuauhtemoc
06500 Mexico, D.F.
Telephone: 011-52-55-5080-2000
Emergency Telephone: 01-55-5080-2000, extension 0
Fax: 011-52-55-5080-2201
acsmexicocity@state.gov
If you have any questions about traveling to Mexico or are wondering what shots you may need for your trip, schedule an appointment with your local Passport Health travel medicine clinic. Call us at or book online now and protect yourself today.
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Mexico
Overall rating: 5 stars – 10 reviews
★★★★★
“A surprise and success“
“Two really nice professional and personable nurses, Christina and Denice. They were thorough and concerned that I understood and bought the proper shots and medicines that were needed for a trip to Mexico.”
Submitted by: Diane
★★★★★
“Passport Health Annapolis, MD Awesome!“
“The representative that helped was so knowledgeable and provided all the guidance I needed to travel to Mexico. She provided the best customer service and put me at ease with my travel plans. If you need any shots or not sure, this is the best place to go.”
Submitted by: Mary
★★★★★
“Can’t wait to return!“
“I am very glad I ended up at passport health. The faculty was very friendly and helpful and gave me much more information than I thought I was going to receive. I am confident in my travels and feel that I will be free of any sicknesses while I am away traveling. The way that the nurse went over each immunization comforted me and made me well aware of what dangers I would be facing in Mexico.”
Submitted by: Laura
★★★★★
“Customer Service“
“The staff were very responsive and processed me quickly given that I will be traveling to Mexico within the next week. Prompt and helpful..”
Submitted by: Mary
★★★★★
“Knowledgeable and Friendly“
“The RN on duty was very knowledgeable and friendly. She was prepared for my visit and had notes ready for me as well as personalized travel book to Mexico. She made strong sales pitched and recommendations without being overbearing. Seemed genuinely interested in my good health abroad.”
Submitted by: Karen
★★★★★
“Great Experience“
“Passport Health was extremely helpful in making sure that I have all the supplies I need before traveling to Mexico. The workers were very nice, polite, and considerate of my concerns as well.”
Submitted by: Jason
★★★★★
“Great Advice & Knowledgeable Nurse“
“I feel much better about my trip to Mexico after talking to the nurse at Passport Health. I was thrilled that they had a personalized packet prepared for me with the latest relevant news from the country. The nurse fully explained my available vaccination options and did not give me any hassle at all when I opted not to get a few of the optional vaccines. Excellent experience!”
Submitted by: Rebecca
★★★★★
“One Stop Travel Preparation“
“The nurse was great in giving me options and advice on staying well in Guadalupe, Mexico in July. She took time to explain the dangers and how to avoid trouble. I will be telling the rest of the group about Passport Health.”
Submitted by: Gloria
★★★★★
“wonderful resource“
“I went to the clinic today, as I am going to Mexico soon. The information I received was very complete and to the point. I have a lot of experience traveling, and this resource is much appreciated. It gives me the information I need for my trip, and reviews health and safety concerns. They keep a record of my immunizations, so that they next time I come I will know what I need.”
Submitted by: Toni
★★★★★
“Back Again“
“I’ve used Passport Health before. When I was preparing to go to Africa my physician sent me there to get vaccines. Later I returned before a trip to Mexico and now this time I’m back again before going to Central America. I know that Passport Health will have the latest health information needed for the countries I plan to visit plus the vaccines and necessities like insect repellent that I might need to purchase. In addition, I have always found the nurses to be very knowledgeable and helpful. Visiting Passport Health before international travel is what I recommend to all my friends.”
Submitted by: Tricia
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Mexico?
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Mexico?
What is the Climate Like in Mexico?
How Safe is Mexico?
Driving and Snorkeling in Mexico
What Should I Take To Mexico?
U.S. Embassy in Mexico
“Two really nice professional and personable nurses, Christina and Denice. They were thorough and concerned that I understood and bought the proper shots and medicines that were needed for a trip to Mexico.”
“The representative that helped was so knowledgeable and provided all the guidance I needed to travel to Mexico. She provided the best customer service and put me at ease with my travel plans. If you need any shots or not sure, this is the best place to go.”
“I am very glad I ended up at passport health. The faculty was very friendly and helpful and gave me much more information than I thought I was going to receive. I am confident in my travels and feel that I will be free of any sicknesses while I am away traveling. The way that the nurse went over each immunization comforted me and made me well aware of what dangers I would be facing in Mexico.”
“The staff were very responsive and processed me quickly given that I will be traveling to Mexico within the next week. Prompt and helpful..”
“The RN on duty was very knowledgeable and friendly. She was prepared for my visit and had notes ready for me as well as personalized travel book to Mexico. She made strong sales pitched and recommendations without being overbearing. Seemed genuinely interested in my good health abroad.”
“Passport Health was extremely helpful in making sure that I have all the supplies I need before traveling to Mexico. The workers were very nice, polite, and considerate of my concerns as well.”
“I feel much better about my trip to Mexico after talking to the nurse at Passport Health. I was thrilled that they had a personalized packet prepared for me with the latest relevant news from the country. The nurse fully explained my available vaccination options and did not give me any hassle at all when I opted not to get a few of the optional vaccines. Excellent experience!”
“The nurse was great in giving me options and advice on staying well in Guadalupe, Mexico in July. She took time to explain the dangers and how to avoid trouble. I will be telling the rest of the group about Passport Health.”
“I went to the clinic today, as I am going to Mexico soon. The information I received was very complete and to the point. I have a lot of experience traveling, and this resource is much appreciated. It gives me the information I need for my trip, and reviews health and safety concerns. They keep a record of my immunizations, so that they next time I come I will know what I need.”
“I’ve used Passport Health before. When I was preparing to go to Africa my physician sent me there to get vaccines. Later I returned before a trip to Mexico and now this time I’m back again before going to Central America. I know that Passport Health will have the latest health information needed for the countries I plan to visit plus the vaccines and necessities like insect repellent that I might need to purchase. In addition, I have always found the nurses to be very knowledgeable and helpful. Visiting Passport Health before international travel is what I recommend to all my friends.”
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Mexico?
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Mexico?
What is the Climate Like in Mexico?
How Safe is Mexico?
Driving and Snorkeling in Mexico
What Should I Take To Mexico?
U.S. Embassy in Mexico