Malaria meds or yellow fever shots recommended?

[maggie3]

We want to stay healthy while traveling. Are yellow fever innoculations and/or malaria meds recommended for travel in the port of belize?

[GTJ]

You probably won't get stricken with anything, but there is the possibility. You should really consult with a professional to help with the decision-making. We've been pleased with the advice given by Passport Health. www.passporthealthusa.com

 

Your greatest concerns are probably going to be malaria, diarrhea, and sunburn.

 

Use good insect repellent. While DEET has been around for many years, consider Picaridin as well since it is nearly as effective and doesn't have many of the negative aspects of DEET (we've used Cutter Advanced Outdoorsman with 15% Picaridin). You can also consider praying your clothes with Permethrin, inlcuding the Sawyer brand. You may get anti-malarial tablets (taken either weekly or daily, depending on the medication), but you'll need a prescription for these.

 

For diarrhea, take a bottle of Imodium with you. It's over the counter and will help with the symptoms. You might also want to use an antibiotic as well. Most people go with Cipro, a general antibotic. I've used Xifaxan, a less commonly used antibiotic that remains in the intestinal tract. For either you'll need to get a prescription.

 

I have very fair skin so I need substantial sun protection. The best out there has been La Roche-Posay Anthelios XL, SPF 60. In the past I bought it from Canada since it had not been approved by FDA, but I think it may have recently been approved in the United States.

 

Finally, you may also wnat to consider general health issues, such as getting shots for tetanus, rabies, etc. Your doctor should give you advice there.