If you have been following the news about the spread of Zika virus through the Americas, read our update on the situation in Mexico. It is safe to travel here and the tourism industry in the Mexican Caribbean and other parts of the country has not been affected. Read more (member log in required).
Although Mexico has been included in the list of countries at risk from the Zika virus, the number of cases reported has been minimal, only 143 cases as of March 7. They were detected principally in rural areas far from the country’s major tourist destinations. As you know, Mexico is a huge country with a total area of 1,964,375 square kilometers. It is the 14th largest nation in the world, and has a population of almost 122 million people (121,736,809, 2015 est.).
The Mexican Ministry of Health is monitoring the Zika virus and has implemented additional measures to contain and prevent it from spreading. These include increased spraying to control mosquito populations, patient screening and campaigns to educate people on protective measures that they can take against the Aedes aegypti mosquito to avoid getting bitten and also to prevent the spread of Zika. For example, covering cisterns and other containers with standing water in homes and gardens deprives the mosquito of breeding grounds.
Royal Resorts has a fumigation program and all areas of the resorts and the rooms are sprayed on a monthly basis. Our sixth resort Grand Residences by Royal Resorts, located to the south of Puerto Morelos has a similar spraying program.
Cancun, Puerto Morelos, Playa del Carmen and other municipal governments in the state of Quintana Roo have ongoing mosquito fumigation campaigns and these are being boosted in line with precautionary measures being taken by the Mexican government.
Precautions to take on vacation
Avoid getting bitten by mosquitoes. The Aedes mosquito bites during the day and is most active in the early morning and late afternoon.
- Apply insect repellent regularly*
- Wear long sleeves and pants; loose cotton clothing in pale colors is recommended
- Wash and cover containers and dishes that hold water
- Keep doors, windows and screens closed
- Use a mosquito net when staying in jungle lodges or cabañas outside major resort areas or hotels with no air-conditioning
- Follow prenatal care guidelines
Until more is known about Zika virus, the Center for Disease Control is recommending special precautions for pregnant women and women trying to become pregnant. They should talk to their doctor about their travel plans.
* Products containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, and some oil of lemon eucalyptus and para-menthane-diol products provide longer-lasting protection and are recommended by the Center for Disease Control (CDC). Products with oil of lemon eucalyptus should not be used on children under the age of three.
