Belize
Located on the Eastern coast of Central America between Mexico and Guatemala, Belize is a true gem. The lush jungles and diverse ecosystems found in the country are a haven for wildlife. Jaguars, armadillos, black howler monkeys and colorful macaws are only a fraction of the extremely rich fauna living here. Belize’s Caribbean coast was once home to fierce pirates… It is now a paradise for tourists with its white sand beaches, emerald waters, idyllic small islets and abundant marine life offering amazing diving experiences. Belize also hides many vestiges of the Mayan civilization, making it truly fascinating to explore.
HEALTH INFORMATION
Risk of Zika in this Country. Learn More >>
We make every effort to ensure that the information posted on our website is up to date and accurate according to the latest public health recommendations; however, it is impossible for us to make changes on a daily basis.
For the most current travel health recommendations, please call our clinic as make an appointment with one of our travel health professionals.
BELIZE – RECOMMENDED VACCINES
| The Yellow Fever Vaccine |
A proof of vaccination against yellow fever may be required upon entry in to this country. Some travellers may not be eligible to receive this vaccine. Please enquire with your health care professional regarding your specific details. For further information, please consult with the World Health Organization (WHO) website: |
| Hepatitis A | Recommended for all travelers. |
| Tetanus – Diphteria – Pertussis Vaccine | Tetanus: In exceptional circumstances (eg, stay in a region where access to health care is limited), for a person aged 18 years or older, 1 dose of DT may be given if 5 years or more has elapsed since the last dose. Otherwise, one booster dose at the age of 50*. Pertussis (Whooping Cough): 1 dose is recommended for pregnant women, for every pregnancy, regardless of immunization history and the interval since the last dose (betwen week 26 and 32). *Only applicable for Quebec. |
| Measles – Rubella – Mumps | Two doses recommended for all travelers born after 1970, if not previously given. |
| Flu – Influenza | Seasonal influenza occurs worldwide. The flu season usually runs from November to April in the northern hemisphere, between April and October in the southern hemisphere and year round in the tropics. Influenza (flu) is caused by a virus spread from person to person through coughing and sneezing or by touching infected surfaces. Everyone 6 months and older should get a flu vaccine yearly. Vaccine is recommended 14 days prior to departure. |
| Routine vaccines (dCaT, Polio, Meningococcal, Shingles, Pneumococcal, Hepatitis B, HPV, MMR & Varicella) | Recommended for all travelers |
| Causes, Symptoms & Treatment – Typhoid fever | Recommended for most travelers, especially those who are staying with friends or relatives; visiting smaller cities, villages, or rural areas where exposure might occur through food or water; or prone to “adventurous eating” |
| Hepatitis B | Consider for most travelers; recommended for those who might be exposed to blood or other body fluids, have sexual contact with the local population, or be exposed through medical treatment (e.g., for an accident). |
| African Tick Bite Fever | Could be present. All travellers should protect themselves against tick bites. |
| Transmission, Symptoms and Prevention – Rabies | For travelers at high risk of animal bites or being involved in activities with bats, dogs and other mammals. Clients who plan to visit remote areas may consider receiving this vaccine. Important to note the pre-exposure rabies vaccine is administered in 2 doses with one week interval between doses. Post-exposure vaccination is always recommended, even for those previously vaccinated. |
| Chagas Disease | Presence. All travelers should protect themselves against triatomine bugs. |
| Turista – Traveler’s Diarrhea (ETEC) | Talk to your health care professional about the risks and precautionary measures to take, as well as the Dukoral® vaccine. Important to note that the Dukoral vaccine is an oral vaccine given in 2 doses, recommended at least 2 weeks prior to departure. |
| Malaria | Malaria is present in this country. The risk may be region specific. Prophylaxis measures to be discussed with the health care professional. |
| Dengue Fever, Chikungunya and/or Zika | There are many illnesses that are transmitted via mosquito bites and unfortunately we do not have vaccines to protect us against most of them. It is important to inquire with your healthcare professional regarding the specific risks and the different illnesses presently in circulation. |
RECOMMENDED MEDICATIONS
| Antibiotics Traveler’s Diarrhea | Ciprofloxacin, Azithromycin or Suprax. |
MEDICAL CARE
Belize has a very low health care level. The medical infrastructure in the country severely lacks trained staff. The medical equipment is usually rudimentary and sometimes non existent in remote areas. To access care of good quality, you need to go to private hospitals, like the Belize Medical Associates, the Universal Health Services and the Loma Luz Hospital, all located in San Ignacio. But these establishments are very expensive.
In case of emergency in Belize, call 90. If you prefer a private ambulance, you can contact BERT at 501-223-3292.
Numerous pharmacies are found in large cities and in some hospitals. Medicines are of good quality in Belize, but their price is usually exorbitant. The country imports drugs from North America and Europe. It is possible to purchase medicines without a prescription. But don’t forget to bring your own first aid kit.
SECURITY ABROAD
Criminal activity, including murder, armed robbery, home invasions, mugging and sexual assault, is a significant problem throughout Belize.
BELIZE – BELMOPAN
Today
34.1°C
Tonight
20.4°C
Wed
32.6°
Thu
17.7°
Fri
16.8°
Sat
22.0°
Sun
24.2°
Mon
26.4°
CANADIAN EMBASSY
Emergency services
Dial 911 for emergency assistance.
