How To Not Get Sick In Mexico w/ 15 Tips & Tricks
Learning how to not get sick in Mexico is really important if you want to actually enjoy your vacation instead of being stuck in bed for a week.
After spending over a year in Mexico I’ve been able to learn these awesome tips and tricks that I want to share with you today so you don’t end up sick in Mexico.
Food Poisoning in Mexico
Avoiding food poisoning in Mexico is easy as long as you only eat fully cooked food that is still hot when you get it.
Are Salads Safe in Mexico?
I tend to stay away from anything cold like salads because they are the most likely to harbor E.coli and other bad things.
Salads also tend to be washed in water, and you know what they say about the water in Mexico…
Can You Drink The Water in Mexico?
You should not drink the water in Mexico straight from the tap. It’s best to use filtered water or bottled water. If you do drink the water from the tap, make sure to boil it and filter it beforehand.
Why does water in Mexico make you sick?
The water in Mexico will make you sick because it’s not treated and can contain bacteria, viruses, and parasites.
Can you drink the water in Cancun?
No, you cannot drink the water in Cancun. It is not any different than elsewhere in Mexico.
Ice in Mexico
Ice in Mexico is a debatable topic. Some people will say it’s safe while others say to avoid it altogether. The truth is, the ice is probably safe.
Locals know that the water is unsafe to drink and will use filtered water to make their ice or buy premade ice at the local Oxxo store.
Is ice safe in Mexico City?
The best way to know if the ice in Mexico city is safe is to ask if it’s filtered ice. As long as the ice wasn’t made from tap water and it’s still 100% frozen, it should be safe.
Can you have ice in Cancun?
The safety of the ice in Cancun is no different than elsewhere in Mexico. It’s probably safe and you can always ask if it is filtered or purified to make sure.
15 Tips & Tricks on How to Not Get Sick in Mexico
I’ve been to Mexico over 5 times and from spending over 6 months there, I’ve learned these 15 tips and tricks that help me from getting sick in Mexico.
1. Ask for “Agua purificada”
One of the most important tips when it comes to avoiding illness while traveling in Mexico is to always drink purified water. Mexico is known for having tap water that is not safe to drink, so it’s crucial that you take extra precautions to ensure you stay hydrated without getting sick.
The easiest way to do this is by asking for “agua purificada” whenever you order drinks at restaurants or cafes. This will guarantee that the water you are drinking has been purified and is safe to consume. Additionally, you can always buy bottled water from a store or grocery to make sure you always have access to safe drinking water.
It’s also a good idea to avoid drinks with ice, as the ice may have been made from tap water. If you do opt for drinks with ice, make sure the ice has been made from purified water.
2. Eating Street Food
Mexican street food is delicious, but it can also be a major source of food-borne illness if you’re not careful. The key to eating street food in Mexico without getting sick is to stick to vendors that are popular and have a high turnover. If you see a line of people waiting to eat, you can be sure that the food is fresh and cooked properly.
When you’re looking for street food, look for vendors that are cooking the food in front of you and make sure that the food is hot. If you’re not sure if the food is cooked properly, ask the vendor. They’re usually more than happy to tell you about their cooking methods and what makes their food special. Just remember, if you don’t feel comfortable eating the food, don’t eat it! Your gut is always right!
3. Bring Antidireheal Medicine
When you’re traveling to a new place, it’s always a good idea to be prepared for the unexpected. And when it comes to Mexico, one thing you definitely don’t want to be unprepared for is getting sick. One of the best ways to avoid getting sick while in Mexico is to bring some anti-diarrheal medicine with you. This can be helpful in case you end up eating something that doesn’t agree with you, or if you get hit with some traveler’s diarrhea.
Now, I’m not saying that you’ll necessarily get sick while in Mexico. But better safe than sorry, right? And having some anti-diarrheal medicine on hand can give you peace of mind and help you feel more confident about your trip. Just be sure to check with your doctor first to see what kind of medicine is best for you. They may even recommend a specific brand or type that’s suitable for your needs.
4. Bring Anti-Hangover Medicine
Mexico is known for its vibrant nightlife, delicious food and drinks, and endless sunshine. But let’s face it, overindulging in alcohol can lead to a rough morning. To avoid feeling sick the next day, I highly recommend bringing anti-hangover medicine. This will help you bounce back quickly and enjoy all that Mexico has to offer.
I personally use activated charcoal capsules, which work by absorbing toxins from alcohol. Another option is to drink Pedialyte, a sports drink that replenishes electrolytes and helps with hydration. Whatever you choose, make sure to take it before you go to bed to avoid feeling sick in the morning. Trust me, this one tip will make a huge difference and allow you to fully enjoy your trip.
5. Don’t Be Afraid of The Farmacias & Consultorios
When traveling to Mexico, you may be a little intimidated by the farmacias and consultorios (pharmacies and clinics). But these are some of the best resources you have when it comes to staying healthy. These facilities are well-stocked with over-the-counter medications and have knowledgeable staff who can give you advice and help you find what you need. They’re also a great place to get vaccinated before your trip.
Don’t be afraid to stop in and ask for help. They can also offer advice on what to do if you do get sick, and they may be able to prescribe medication if necessary. Remember, these resources are there to help keep you healthy and make your trip as enjoyable as possible. So don’t hesitate to use them!
6. Use Hand Sanitizer
Using hand sanitizer is one of the simplest and most effective ways to avoid getting sick while in Mexico. A lot of people think that they only need to wash their hands when they use the bathroom, but that’s not enough. There are so many things that you touch during the day that are covered in germs. This is why I always carry a small bottle of hand sanitizer with me, so I can use it whenever I need to.
One of the great things about hand sanitizer is that it’s super convenient to use. You don’t need water or a sink, you just squeeze some of the gel onto your hands, rub them together for about 20 seconds, and you’re good to go. Just make sure to use a hand sanitizer that has at least 60% alcohol, as that’s the most effective at killing germs.
Using hand sanitizer is especially important if you’re going to be eating street food or visiting crowded places, as these are prime spots for germs to spread. Just a few squirts of sanitizer, and you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your hands are clean and protected. So make sure to pack a bottle in your bag before heading to Mexico, and use it often!
7. Bring a Water Bottle with a Built-in Filter
When you’re traveling to Mexico, one of the biggest concerns is staying hydrated. After all, being sick in a foreign country is the last thing you want. That’s why it’s so important to bring a water bottle with a built-in filter. This way, you can ensure that the water you’re drinking is safe and clean.
Not only will having a water bottle with a built-in filter help you avoid getting sick, but it’ll also save you a ton of money. Instead of constantly buying bottled water, you can just fill up your own bottle and go. And if you’re worried about the water quality, just use the filter and you’ll be good to go. It’s a simple, yet effective way to stay healthy while traveling in Mexico.
8. Make Sure Your Hot Food Is Hot
If you’re ordering food from a street vendor or restaurant, make sure that the hot food you’re getting is actually hot. Food that’s not hot enough can allow bacteria to grow, which can make you sick. The general rule is that hot food should be kept at a temperature of 140°F (60°C) or above. If you’re unsure if your food is hot enough, don’t be afraid to ask the vendor to heat it up some more. Trust me, it’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to avoiding illness.
9. Make Sure Your Cold Food is Cold
Another important factor to keep in mind when trying to avoid illness in Mexico is the temperature of your cold food. Just like hot food, cold food also needs to be kept at a certain temperature to prevent bacteria growth. Cold food should be kept at a temperature of 40°F (4°C) or lower. This means that when you’re ordering cold dishes like salads or seafood, make sure they’re actually cold to the touch. If the food is lukewarm, don’t eat it! This is a sign that the food has been sitting out for too long and could be harboring harmful bacteria.
10. Eat At The Busy Places
When it comes to eating in Mexico, it’s always best to stick with the busy places. Restaurants and street vendors that have a steady stream of customers are more likely to have fresh ingredients and take food safety seriously. Plus, they have a reputation to uphold and wouldn’t want to make their customers sick.
So, if you see a place that looks busy and has a line out the door, go ahead and give it a try. You’re more likely to get a delicious and safe meal that way. And don’t be afraid to ask locals where they recommend eating – they know the best spots in town and can steer you in the right direction.
11. Watch The Employee’s Cleanliness
- I know it may sound a bit scary, but you want to make sure that the staff is handling your food with care and maintaining a high level of hygiene. It’s essential to keep your eyes peeled for any signs of uncleanliness, like dirty aprons or unkempt hair.
To make sure your meal stays safe, you should always check for the following:
- The employee is wearing gloves or using utensils when handling food
- The employee is washing their hands regularly
- The kitchen and countertops are free of dirt and grime
- The employee is wearing a clean apron
If you notice anything off, it’s best to opt for a different restaurant. Your health should always come first!
12. Ask Your Taxi or Uber Driver for Recommendations
When in Mexico, one of the best sources of information on how to stay healthy and avoid getting sick are the locals. And what better way to get recommendations from locals than from the people you interact with daily, like your taxi or Uber driver. They’re often up-to-date on the latest news and recommendations and can give you insider tips on where to eat and what to avoid.
For example, if you’re looking for a safe place to eat, just ask your driver for their recommendations. They’ll often be more than happy to share their favorite local spots with you. And if you’re worried about getting sick from the food, don’t hesitate to ask them about their own experiences and what they would recommend.
13. Prepare With Immune System Boosters
As someone who has been to Mexico a few times, I can tell you that it’s important to take care of your health while you’re there. One way to do this is by preparing your immune system with boosters before you go. Some great ways to do this include:
- Eating a diet that’s rich in vitamins and minerals
- Drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated
- Taking probiotics to help with digestion
- Taking vitamin C supplements to support your immune system
- Getting enough sleep
If you’re already feeling run down before your trip, it’s a good idea to take a few extra precautions. Maybe you could avoid alcohol for a week or two before you go to give your body a chance to recover.
It’s also important to remember that you won’t be able to prevent every illness, but taking these steps will certainly help you stay healthy while you’re in Mexico. So don’t forget to pack some vitamins and supplements in your luggage and check out my post Immune Support for Traveling for more information.
14. Brush Your Teeth With Bottled Water
One thing that a lot of travelers overlook is the importance of brushing your teeth with bottled water. It may seem like a small detail, but brushing with tap water can expose you to bacteria and other pathogens that can make you sick. So, when you’re in Mexico, make sure to only brush your teeth with bottled water. Not only will it help prevent illness, but it’s also just a good habit to get into while traveling in general.
15. Be Careful With Shower Water
When it comes to showers in Mexico, it’s safe to take one, but you’ll want to be careful with the water. Some areas may have tap water that contains bacteria or parasites, so it’s best to keep your mouth closed and avoid getting water up your nose. This will help to prevent any potential sickness. So, go ahead and freshen up with a shower, but just make sure to keep your mouth closed and avoid getting water up your nose.
What To Do If You Get Sick in Mexico
If you end up getting sick in Mexico, knowing what to do can help you get healthy faster and prevent a dangerous situation from occurring.
Food Poisoning in Mexico
If you get food poisoning in Mexico, be sure to stay hydrated with clean, safe drinking water and go to the nearest pharmacy. Pharmacies in Mexico are used to seeing Montezuma’s revenge and will know just what you need.
Be sure to get the electrolyte drinks that they seem to recommend for everything, they really work.
Altitude Sickness in Mexico
If you’re going somewhere high above sea level, like Mexico City, altitude sickness can sneak up on you and you might not even realize it.
Alcohol Poisoning in Mexico
Alcohol poisoning is among the most dangerous ways to get sick in Mexico. When you’re under the influence of alcohol you are less likely to make the right decisions that could lead to an ambulance ride or even death.
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