Travel Health in Honduras

Honduras is a small country in Central America bordered by Guatemala to the north, El Salvador to the southwest and Nicaragua to the south. The eastern coast is on the Caribbean Sea. Given its sub-tropical climate, there are several health risks to be aware of.

Malaria is present in parts of Honduras at altitudes below 3,000 feet. This includes the Bay Islands but does not include San Pedro Sula and Tegucigalpa. If traveling to an area where malaria is present we advise mosquito bite prevention such as wearing protective clothing, using insect repellent and sleeping under a mosquito net. Talk to your doctor if you would like to take an anti-malaria medication.

There have also been Dengue Fever outbreaks in Honduras recently. Take the above precautions against insect bites. The  mosquitoes that carry Dengue Fever bite more during the day, so keep yourself protected at all times.

Diarrhea is common among travelers to Honduras. The most common causes are parasites, bacteria and viruses. If it continues for a few days or goes away and then comes back or you have other symptoms such as lethargy, dizziness, blood in the stool or cramps you should get a stool sample tested. We strongly suggest doing this while in Honduras rather than  waiting until you are in your home country, as local doctors know the parasites and bacteria common in their area.

Do not drink the tap water unless it has been boiled, filtered or treated. Eat only raw fruits and vegetables that have been thoroughly washed and/peeled, preferably by yourself. Be picky about eating from street vendors, watch to make sure any food you eat out has been prepared in a sanitary way.

Pack your own health kit including anti-diarrhea drugs, acetaminophen for reducing fevers, band-aids, antibiotics in case of skin infection or diarrhea and any medication you regularly use.

Travelers to Honduras are encouraged to seek medical advice before they go and to review their routine vaccinations.

Preventing mosquito bites is important to protecting your health

Honduras Travel Guide

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