Health

Is there any especial vaccine required to visit Cancun?
No, you are not required to present any vaccine certificate in order to come to this beautiful destination.

What should I do in case of an ailment?
Most of the big hotels have doctors among their staff. You can also go to the net of hospitals and clinics in Cancun, establishments equipped with excellent infrastructure and emergency rooms (see title Hospitals and Clinics).

Is tap water reliable?
Hotels in Cancun have water-purifying plants. Ask at the reception desk about the quality of the water. In any case, it is always advisable to drink bottled water in order to avoid any discomfort.

What precautions should I take regarding food?
Mexican food is usually very spicy, seasoned and greasy. Its dishes are delicious but they occasionally cause discomfort in foreign stomachs, so it is recommendable to be careful while strolling along the streets of taste, meaning be frugal until your organism gets use to Aztec seasoning.
Likewise, avoid eating at places that do not present adequate hygienic conditions. Regarding fruits, prefer those that can be pilled, and in the case of salads, ask for them at clean tourist restaurants only. Be also prudent with the fishes and the seafood; eat them only at places you regard as reliable.

If in spite of all these precautions you were to suffer a stomach problem (a rather usual malady amongst travellers), drink plenty of purified water and anti-acids after each meal. If the problem persists ask a doctor.

How do I avoid sunburn?
Take into consideration that the ideal way to get a nice suntan is by exposing oneself to the sunrays during short time periods first, to then start prolonging them progressively to prevent the skin from being damaged by the sun. Therefore, try not to be overexposed under the rays of king sun for the first days. Do not fail to use sunscreen and to drink abundant water to keep your skin hydrated. Do not hesitate to ask for medical assistance if you were to suffer sunburns or erythemas. Remember that big hotels have health professionals working 24 hours a day.

What should I do if I am smarted by a jellyfish?
If you were to be smarted by an aguamala (a type of jellyfish), get out of the water until the itch diminishes. It is advisable to apply humid sand or abundant apple vinegar on the injured area. In case these homemade remedies did not work, go and see a doctor.