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Cholera in Mexico (Update)

14 Nov 2013

The Ministry of Health in Mexico has reported an additional 4 cholera cases. Of these, 2 are from the state of Hidalgo and 2 from the state of Veracruz.

Since the beginning of the outbreak in September 2013, to date, a total of 180 confirmed cases, including one death, of cholera has been reported in Mexico. Of these, 2 are from the Federal District, 159 cases from the state of Hidalgo, 9 from the state of Mexico, 2 from the state of San Luis Potosi and 8 from the state of Veracruz.

Measures are being implemented to ensure access to drinking water and basic sanitation at the community level. Awareness campaigns, particularly around safe water and food consumption are being carried out in Spanish and indigenous languages.

Advice for Travellers

Cholera is a low risk for most travellers to the popular destinations of Mexico and vaccination would not normally be recommended although a high standard of food, water and personal hygiene is 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.