Central America- Health & Vaccinations
This overview covers the seven states of Central America with brief information on vaccination recommendations and health risks. It does not replace individual travel-medicine advice. Entry requirements, malaria risk, outbreaks and recommendations depend on itinerary, season, length of stay, age and medical history.
Important notice
Review routine vaccinations, destination-specific vaccines and, where appropriate, malaria prevention 4–8 weeks before departure. The links open in a new tab and lead to the Tropical Institute’s country information on vaccinations, malaria, mosquito protection and other health risks.
Country index
General resources
- Tropical Institute: vaccination, malaria and health information by destination
- Tropical Institute: vaccinations A–Z
- Tropical Institute: insect protection for risk areas
Belize
Hepatitis A, typhoid, rabies, dengue and malaria in certain areas may be relevant. Plan mosquito protection, food and water hygiene, and suitable insurance for diving trips.
Costa Rica
Hepatitis A, typhoid, rabies, dengue and malaria in some regions may be relevant. Use consistent mosquito protection and account for sun, water hygiene and medical access in remote nature areas.
El Salvador
Review routine vaccines, hepatitis A, typhoid and mosquito protection. Dengue and other mosquito-borne infections may be relevant; consider heat and food hygiene.
Guatemala
Hepatitis A, typhoid, rabies, dengue, regional malaria and yellow fever may be relevant. Plan acclimatisation for highlands and consistent mosquito protection for lowland and jungle areas.
Honduras
Hepatitis A, typhoid, rabies, dengue and malaria in selected regions may be relevant. Plan mosquito protection, water hygiene and access to medical care outside larger cities.
Nicaragua
Hepatitis A, typhoid, rabies, dengue and regional malaria may be relevant. For volcano, nature and beach travel, consider mosquito protection, sun exposure and food hygiene.
Panama
Hepatitis A, typhoid, rabies, dengue and regional yellow fever or malaria may be relevant. For Darién and other remote regions, obtain individual advice and check mosquito protection and medical-evacuation cover.