Health & Safety
Mexico has some prevalent infectious diseases including hepatitis, typhoid, tuberculosis and rabies. It is encouraged that you consult your doctor about vaccinations before travelling. All water should be boiled otherwise drink bottled water and avoid ice cubes and raw or undercooked food.
Visitors to Mexico City may experience health problems caused by poor air quality,especialy during the winter months. Visitors with heart, lung or respiratory problems are advised to consult their doctors before travelling. in some places some difficulties may also be caused by high altitude.
Private hospitals in Mexico are of a fair standard in the major cities. Outside major cities facilities can be very limited. Doctors and hospitals expect cash payment prior to providing medical services, including for emergency care. It is advised that travellers take out comprehensive travel insurance in case of serious illness or injury.
Hurricanes can occur from June to November and may be accompanied by landslides, mudslides and flash flooding, even in Mexico City. Mexico is also subject to earthquakes. There are several active volcanoes, throughout the country and although eruptions are very rate visitors should be alert.
Large public gatherings and protests and demonstrations should be avoided as they may turn violent. Foreign nationsals are prohibited from participation in demonstrations. Protests and demonstrations in Mexico are common and have the potential to cause major traffic and pedestrian transport problems.
Most visits are trouble-free, but crime and kidnappings are not unknown. Travellers should be particularly alert in tourist areas and exercise caution when exchanging or withdrawing money.
Poor Road conditions on rural roads around Mexico can present dangers. Additionally the presence of livestock and pedestrians on roads is common and is often compounded by poor lighting and signage.
The emergency number for police, fire or ambulance is 060.
We strongly advise that all Australian travellers check the latest travel advice on the Australian Government Smart Traveller site.
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