I am traveling to Guatemala to visit my sister over spring break for a few weeks...do i need to get any shots?

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Casual Traveler

I've been to Guatemala twice. I've never had to get any shots. My doctor recommended some malaria pills, but I never took them because I've seen people suffer from the side effects. I'm sure malaria is much worse, but I decided to roll the dice and hope I didn't get it, lol. Just in case you want to get whatever the Drs recommend, here is a link to the Center for Disease Control.

http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/destinationGuatemala.aspx

By the way, I spent most of my time (about 1 1/2 month total) in remote villages living in poor conditions too. Just make sure you bring plenty of insect repellant.

Peter J

Just don't drink the water. Always drink purified water. Soda pop is fine too. But take some stomach/diarrhea medicine anyway. In those remote villages, if you eat with the people you might get something. But that's all part of the experience! So you should definitely eat what the locals give you.
I traveled through Central America recently. I think I got some parasites. They sell parasite killers there over the counter, but I forgot to buy some. In the U.S you can't get them without a prescription. I didn't do anything and I feel fine now, but who knows if they are still living inside me!

Jennifer

I never had to get any shots. We were in Guatemala City which was a lot like here. Maybe you should research it. Depending on what part you are going to.

Red Hat

I had to get a hepatitis shot but I lived there for a while. You're probably ok but it wouldn't hurt. If you get a parasite go straight to a farmacia (pharmacy) there to get some pills. Their drugs are much stronger than what you'll find in the states. If you do get one I would recommend a pill called No Dik. No I'm not joking, that's what it's really called. I got amoebas on more than one occasion and those pills saved me! Just be careful what you eat and don't drink any water that's not purified, bottled water and I'm sure you'll be fine. Have fun! That is the greatest place in the world!

earwaxyness

Guatemala borders El Salvador. I had to get shots when I went to El Salvador. Check with your doctor to be sure but you most likely do need some.

Elizabeth G

check with your doctor most likely you will need them
i was there last July and got 3 shots and plus some malaria meds.

Egoistic Joker!

To be on the safe side and for peace of mind you should get a flu shot. Check with your doctor to see if he recommends any other shots.

jorgeyankee

No shots, just the flu one. And I take that one every time I go to the US, because you have your sickness too!!!!

Well if you travel to a poor village, a mosquito repelent will be a lot of help, and medicine for stomach, headache. Tapped water is recomended. And please, go to a sanitary, not on the street.

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