Mexico travel advice

The World Health Organisation (WHO) Pandemic Threat Alert Phase remains at Level 5. See the WHO website at www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/en/index.html for further details.

Following a decline in the number of reported new swine influenza cases in Mexico since its peak on 26 April 2009, visitors are no longer advised against all but essential travel.

Visitors should continue to follow local advice on precautions to take to avoid exposure to the influenza.

Cases of swine influenza have been reported in Mexico City and a number of other locations across the country. Travellers should consult a doctor immediately if they show signs of flu-like symptoms.

The Mexican Secretariat of Health has advised people to avoid large crowds, shaking hands and kissing people as a greeting. Maintaining a distance of at least 1.8m (6ft) from other persons and frequent hand washing may decrease the risk of exposure.

The hurricane season in Mexico normally runs from June to November and can affect both the Pacific and Atlantic coasts.

Most visits are trouble-free, but crime and kidnappings continue. Travellers should be particularly alert in tourist areas (especially on public transport and when dealing with real or purported policemen) and exercise caution when exchanging or withdrawing money.

There were a high number of drug-related killings in 2008, which have continued in 2009, particularly in the northern border and Pacific states. Foreign visitors and residents have been among the victims in the border region but there is no evidence to suggest that they have been targeted because of their nationality. Visitors to the region should follow the advice of local authorities.

There have been a recent number of unexpected and unpredictable demonstrations across the country particularly in Monterrey and northern border areas. Visitors to these areas should be aware of the potential for disruption to their travel plans and should ensure they follow the advice of local authorities.

The threat from terrorism is low. But travellers should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be against civilian targets, including places frequented by foreigners.

Dengue Fever is endemic to Latin America and the Caribbean and can occur throughout the year. There has been a marked increase in the number of reported cases of dengue in 2007.

This advice is based on information provided by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in the UK. It is correct at time of publishing. As the situation can change rapidly, visitors are advised to contact the following organisaions for the latest travel advice:

British Foreign and Commonwealth Office
Tel: 0845 850 2829.
Website: www.fco.gov.uk

US Department of State
Website: http://travel.state.gov/travel