Risk / Health Info for Belize

Make sure your shots are up to date before you go to Belize, and consider getting vaccinated against hepatitis B.

Avoid “travellers’ diarrhea” and illnesses such as hepatitis A, typhoid and cholera can be prevented with vaccinations and by avoiding contaminated food and water, so if you can’t boil it, cook it or peel it, don’t eat it.

There is also a risk of getting Zika and other mosquito-borne illnesses in Belize so take care to avoid getting bitten by wearing clothing that covers your whole body, sleeping under bed nets and always using a reliable insect repellent.

Belize has limited medical facilities in and evacuation might be required in emergencies. Your regular health insurance will not cover you when you leave Canada, so consult your provincial or territorial health authority before you go.

Chikungunya virus in Belize

Cases of Chikungunya virus have been reported in Belize. It is spread by day-biting mosquitoes and you can guard against infection by covering up and using mosquito repellents. Infection results in joint pains, fever, rash and headache. It clears up after a few days, but some patients are left with swollen and painful joints for weeks or even years afterwards.

Dengue fever in Belize

There have been cases of the mosquito-borne virus dengue fever in Belize. Dengue fever is also known as breakbone fever because of the severe bone, joint and muscular pains it causes, in addition to flu-like fever and headache. There is no vaccine for dengue fever. Avoid mosquito bites by using insect repellents (50% DEET) and by wearing protective clothing. Sleeping with mosquito nets is also recommended.

Malaria in Belize

Malaria prophylaxis will be required for some parts of Belize at certain times of year. There is no malaria vaccine, but there are anti-malaria drugs that should be taken before, during and after travelling to certain at-risk countries. Speak with your healthcare provider six weeks before your trip, as not all prophylaxis regimes are appropriate for all regions and all individuals.

Zika in Belize

Global Affairs Canada has issued a warning about the risk of contracting Zika in Belize. Zika is a viral disease spread by mosquitoes, and infection during pregnancy has been linked to birth defects. Women who are pregnant or planning to get pregnant should take advice before travelling to Belize. Zika symptoms include rash, itch, mild fever, headache, red eyes, muscle and joint pains. Avoid mosquito bites by using insect repellents (50% DEET) and by wearing protective clothing. Mosquito nets and air conditioning should be used when sleeping.