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Cholera in Mexico (Update)

29 Oct 2013

The Ministry of Health in Mexico has reported an additional five cases of cholera infection. The five cases occurred in la Huasteca, an area where urbanization, availability of drinking water and basic sanitation services are limited.

From 9 September to date, a total of 176 confirmed cholera cases, including one death, has been reported in the country. Of these, two are from the Federal District, 157 cases from the state of Hidalgo, nine from the state of Mexico, two from the state of San Luis Potosi and six from the state of Veracruz. Fifty-seven cases have been hospitalized.

Advice for Travellers

Cholera is a low risk for most travellers to the popular destinations of Mexico and vaccination would not normally be recommended.

Travellers to outbreak areas who will be mixing closely with the local population and cannot ensure safe drinking water can be immunised against cholera. A high standard of food, water and personal hygiene should also be maintained.