Belize, in Central America, borders Mexico and Guatemala and is home to a rain forest, mountains, a barrier reef and Mayan ruins. Before you leave home, ensure that you and your travel companions are up to date on the recommended vaccinations for travelers to the country. Americans entering Belize from the United States are not required to have proof of vaccinations before entering the country, but the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (cdc.gov) maintains a list of suggested immunizations for a visit to the country.
All travelers headed to Belize should be up to date on their routine vaccinations, notes the CDC. These include the MMR, or measles, mumps and rubella vaccine; the DPT vaccine for diphtheria, pertussis and tetanus; the polio vaccine; and immunizations against the flu and chicken pox. The CDC provides a list on its website of recommended routine immunizations for children and adults to help you determine which vaccines you should consider getting before visiting Belize.
Americans who have not been vaccinated against typhoid or Hepatitis A or B should receive the vaccines before traveling to Belize, notes the CDC. All travelers have some risk of contracting these diseases, but those having medical treatment in Belize or who may be exposed to bodily fluids run a higher risk of contracting Hepatitis B. Unvaccinated travelers visiting the rural areas where food sanitation may not be up to a high standard, may be at risk for contracting typhoid through the food or water supply.
The CDC notes that certain travelers may be at risk for contracting rabies and should consider receiving the vaccine in advance of travel. These include those who will spend a significant amount of time outdoors hiking or camping; those who are likely to be exposed to mammals, such as veterinarians; or others who will be working with animals. Children going to Belize may also benefit from the rabies vaccine because they are more likely than adults to interact with animals and to receive bites.
Americans who travel to Belize after visiting a country where yellow fever is prevalent, such as Brazil, Ecuador and Peru, must provide proof of having been inoculated against yellow fever before they will be allowed to enter the country. If you are planning to visit other Central American countries as well as Belize, check the CDC website to make sure yellow fever is not present in those countries; if it is present, arrange to be vaccinated.