Going to Guatemala with a small child do we need special medical considerations?

Question

Going to Guatemala with a small child do we need special medical considerations?

Answer 1

Hi...I am not exactly sure what you are asking but I hope this helps... It definitely depends on where you are going exactly. If you are going to a big city/touristy area you will probably be fine. But...when I traveled to Guatemala I had to get a typhoid fever shot and take milaria pills. I was traveling to a really rural part of Guatemala to build houses though. And obviously don't drink the water. Bottled water is safest no matter where you go. I am not sure if there are special cosiderations for such a small child because it doesn't seem safe for them to have those shots or take the pills. You could check with any vaccination clinic or hospital. Have fun and good luck...I loved Guatemala I can't wait to go back someday!

Answer 2

I live about 15 miles from Guatemala city,and have been here for 9months and idont take any thing.Befor you leav the states talk to your Dr.and tell them were tou are going.

Answer 3

I've posted a link below that tells you what you need to be concerned about.  I've been to Guatemala twice and never taken any of the recommended pills.  I've had relatives that traveled to Guatemala and took the malaria pills and they said the pills alone made them sick.  Bring plenty, and I mean PLENTY of insect repellant if you are headed away from Guatemala City.  I don't know why anyone would go to Guatemala and stay in the city, but that's a whole different issue, lol.  I would also bring some Pepto Bismol pills for when you need them, not if, but when.  If you are there for more than a few days, you will get "travelers diarhea."  The most important thing is to use the insect repellant.  The most common diseases (malaria and dengue fever) are from mosquitos.  

http://www.cdc.gov/travel/camerica.htm

Answer 4

If you are going to go into the jungle part of Guatemala, I would take malaria pills and have the yellow fever shot. However, if you are visiting Guatemala city and places like that, which are not rural, you and your child would be fine. I have been 3 times to Guatemala city and I didnt even catch a cold. And I needed no special shots. I've also been to Antigua and it was ok. However, as you are travelling with a small child, ask your pediatrician and travel with the normal precautions and medicines you would travel to any other country in the world, just in case your child has diarreah, catches a cold, etc.