Belize Travel: What Vaccinations Are Required?

Belize is a country in Central America that borders Mexico and Guatemala. It is known for its rich culture, nature, and adventure attractions, including archaeological sites, museums, and wildlife. While there are no mandatory vaccinations required for entry into Belize, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) recommend several vaccinations to protect travellers' health and safety. These include vaccines for typhoid, hepatitis A, polio, yellow fever, chikungunya, rabies, hepatitis B, influenza, COVID-19, pneumonia, meningitis, chickenpox, shingles, Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis), and measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR). Additionally, travellers are advised to take precautions against mosquito-borne diseases like Zika, dengue fever, and malaria, and food and water-borne illnesses like typhoid and hepatitis A.

Routine immunisations

In addition to these routine immunisations, the CDC also suggests that travellers to Belize should consider receiving the following vaccinations:

• Typhoid
• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B
• Rabies
• Chikungunya
• Yellow Fever
• COVID-19

It is important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine which vaccinations are appropriate for your specific travel plans and health status.

Malaria and mosquito-borne illnesses

Belize is home to a variety of mosquito-borne illnesses, including malaria, dengue fever, chikungunya, and Zika. While the risk of contracting these diseases is generally low, it is important to take precautions to protect yourself.

Malaria is a mosquito-borne disease that is rare in developed areas of Belize due to eradication efforts. However, there are still rare, locally transmitted cases in some parts of the country. If you are travelling to a malaria-risk area, it is important to fill your malaria prescription before you leave and continue taking the medication for the entire length of your trip. Common prevention methods include using insect repellent with DEET, wearing long clothing, using bed nets, and staying in air-conditioned or screened rooms.

Dengue fever is another viral infection spread by mosquitoes that is present in some regions of Belize. Symptoms include high fever and rash, and there is no vaccine available. Prevention involves taking protective measures against mosquito bites, such as using insect repellent and wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants.

Chikungunya is transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes and can cause fever and joint pain. Vaccination is recommended, especially for those over 65 years old or with underlying medical conditions who plan to spend at least two weeks in areas where mosquitoes are present.

The Zika virus is spread by mosquito bites and poses risks such as birth defects and sexual transmission. Prevention involves using insect repellent, practising safe sex, and eliminating mosquito breeding sites.

In addition to these mosquito-borne illnesses, Chagas disease, transmitted by the assassin bug, and leishmaniasis, transmitted by sand flies, are also present in Belize. Overall, it is important to take precautions to protect yourself from insect bites and seek medical advice if you experience any symptoms of these illnesses.

Food and water safety

Belize has a range of dining options, from high-end restaurants to street food. To reduce the risk of illness, it is recommended to follow food safety guidelines. Opt for fully cooked dishes, avoid raw seafood, and choose eateries with good hygiene practices. It is also important to practise good hand hygiene and avoid unsanitary street food to prevent travellers' diarrhoea.

If you are concerned about food and water safety in Belize, there are some additional precautions you can take. These include:

• Boiling tap water before drinking
• Carrying a water purification device, such as a Steripen
• Avoiding raw or undercooked foods, including salads and raw seafood
• Peeling fruits and vegetables yourself
• Taking probiotics and digestive enzymes to aid digestion
• Carrying medications such as Imodium for diarrhoea

It is also recommended to be up to date with routine immunisations such as hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and typhoid, as these diseases can be spread through contaminated food and water.

Animal bites

Snakes

Belize is known for its diverse snake population, including the highly venomous Fer-de-Lance (or Tommy Goff), the Mayan coral snake, the eyelash viper, and the neotropical rattlesnake. These snakes can be found in forests, swamps, and mangroves. The Fer-de-Lance, in particular, is responsible for the most snakebite-related deaths in Central America due to its ability to inject a large amount of venom and its aggressive nature. It is important to be aware of your surroundings and identify these species to avoid potential encounters.

Spiders and Scorpions

Several dangerous spiders inhabit Belize, such as the brown recluse, the black widow, and the tarantula. While their bites are typically not fatal, they can cause pain, inconvenience, and in rare cases, more severe complications. Scorpions are also common, especially in dark corners, beaches, and wood piles. Their stings are similar in pain to a bee sting, but they can be more serious for individuals prone to anaphylactic shock.

Insects

Belize is home to a variety of insects that can bite or sting, including mosquitoes, sand flies, bullet ants, and vampire bats. Mosquitoes are most active during the rainy season (June-November) and in areas with stagnant water. They can transmit diseases such as malaria and dengue fever, so it is important to take precautions like using mosquito nets and repellents. Sand flies, also known as no-see-ums, can deliver a hard bite that can cause redness and itching. Bullet ants, as their name suggests, can inflict a painful sting that lasts for 24 hours. Vampire bats, while rare, can transmit diseases such as rabies, so it is important to seek medical attention if bitten.

Precautions

To minimise the risk of animal bites and stings in Belize, take the following precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings and identify potentially dangerous species.
• Wear long sleeves, pants, and socks to limit exposed skin.
• Choose accommodations with good screens, or use a fan to blow away insects while sleeping.
• Use mosquito nets, especially during the rainy season and in areas with stagnant water.
• Avoid outdoor activities during the hour before sunset, when mosquito activity is highest.
• Do not touch or interact with wild animals, especially those that appear venomous or dangerous.
• Seek immediate medical attention if bitten or stung, even if the bite or sting seems minor.

Travel health advice

Belize is a country in Central America, bordering Mexico and Guatemala. The climate is tropical, with frequent hurricanes and tropical storms. The dry season is usually from February to April, and this is considered the best time to travel.

There are no mandatory vaccinations required for entry into Belize, but the CDC and WHO recommend several vaccinations and health precautions for travellers to the country. These include:

• Routine immunizations such as MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella), DPT (diphtheria, pertussis, and tetanus), polio, influenza, and chickenpox.
• Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccinations are recommended for all travellers, especially those who may be exposed to contaminated food or water.
• Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for travellers who may be exposed to bodily fluids or require medical treatment.
• Rabies vaccination is suggested for those who will spend significant time outdoors or in contact with animals.
• Yellow fever vaccination is required if travelling from a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission.
• Malaria is present in Belize, so antimalarials may be recommended depending on your itinerary.
• Dengue fever and Zika virus are also present in Belize, transmitted by mosquitoes, so insect repellent and protective clothing are recommended.

In addition to vaccinations, travellers to Belize should be aware of other health risks such as Chagas disease, leishmaniasis, and food and water safety. It is important to follow CDC guidelines for food and water safety, including consuming fully cooked dishes, avoiding raw seafood, and choosing eateries with good hygiene practices.

Belize has a high level of criminal activity, especially in the south side of Belize City and along the country's borders. Tourists are often targeted for crimes such as petty theft, pickpocketing, and credit card fraud. It is important to be vigilant, avoid walking or driving at night, and not to display signs of wealth.

It is also recommended to consult a travel health professional or the CDC website for the most up-to-date information on health risks and recommended vaccinations for Belize.

Frequently asked questions