No, Mexico is not a high-risk country for dog-transmitted rabies; the World Health Organization (WHO) declared it free of dog-mediated human rabies as a public health problem due to successful vaccination programs. However, rabies still exists in other mammals (bats, foxes, skunks, etc.), so the CDC recommends pre-exposure vaccination for certain travelers (ecotourists, researchers, those in remote areas) and notes that rabies post-exposure treatment is available in Mexico.

Is Mexico a high risk country for rabies?

In 2019, Mexico got a big thumbs-up from the World Health Organization (WHO). They declared the country free of human rabies transmitted by dogs. Five years later, Mexico is still upholding this achievement. This is not a given.

Which country has the highest risk of rabies?

It is estimated that 60% of rabies human deaths occur in Africa. Outside of Africa, rabies is especially prevalent in India (which accounts for 36% of global rabies deaths) and in parts of Southeast Asia.

Do I need a rabies shot for Mexico?

Depending on what your plans are, you may also need additional immunisation for rabies and tetanus – make sure you speak to a travel nurse at least six weeks before your trip to discuss your needs. In certain parts of Mexico, malaria prevention is also required.

Is it safe to take my dog to Mexico?

You can take your pets to Mexico: Mexican customs will allow you to introduce domestic pets (cats or dogs) to Mexico, provided that you have the correct zoo-sanitary paperwork in order and the animal(s) appear in good health on arrival.

How to Import Your Dog into the USA from ANY High-Risk Rabies Country! in 2025!!!

What vaccines do dogs need to fly to Mexico?

Mexico requires pets to be vaccinated against rabies but does not mandate microchipping for entry. While a health certificate isn't required for pets arriving from the U.S. or Canada, airlines still typically ask for one to confirm vaccination status.

How dog friendly is Mexico?

Dining Out in Mexico with a Dog

When it comes to restaurants and dogs in Mexico, generally dogs are not allowed inside restaurants, but are often allowed in outdoor dining areas.

Should travelers get rabies vaccines?

Pre-exposure prophylaxis vaccination is recommended for people who work directly with animals that could have rabies. Those who travel to parts of the world where rabies is common and access to medical care is limited also may consider pre-exposure prophylaxis.

How much does a rabies shot cost in Mexico?

Prices for the vaccination range from 200 for a single dose of Rabies vaccine for a pup to over 900 MXN for a 5 doses combination depending on what vet praxis you go to. (Note that prices vary wildly and if you're looking for an English speaking vet that would probably hike your price).

When was the last rabies case in Mexico?

Mexico had its last human rabies case in 2006. Boehringer Ingelheim is proud to support Mexico in the fight against rabies by supplying veterinarians and public health workers with rabies vaccination kits. Despite having an estimated 24 million dogs living on the street, Mexico eradicated dog-mediated rabies.

Is Mexico low risk for rabies?

Mexico is a leading example of rabies elimination through a One Health approach, making mass dog and cat vaccination a public health responsibility under the Ministry of Health. In the 1980s Mexico recorded some 600 human rabies cases.

How long after exposure can you get a rabies shot?

The first dose should be given as soon as possible after exposure to rabies. Additional doses are given on the 3rd, 7th, and 14th days after the first.

Does insurance cover rabies shots for humans?

Don't wait until symptoms appear, because it will be too late. Many health insurance plans cover much of the rabies vaccine cost for humans and an injection of HRIG antibodies if treatment after suspected exposure is required. Pre-exposure rabies vaccine may not be covered by your health plan.

What is the 10 day rule in rabies?

The 10-day observation period for a biting dog, cat, or ferret is a standard public health practice to determine rabies risk: if the animal remains healthy for 10 days after biting someone, it wasn't shedding the rabies virus in its saliva at the time of the bite, meaning the exposed person usually doesn't need rabies post-exposure shots (PEP). This quarantine ensures the animal is available for monitoring, preventing unnecessary euthanasia for brain testing and avoiding expensive PEP for the bite victim if the animal stays healthy.
 

Is there a downside to getting rabies vaccines?

Slight side effects like fever, weakness, headache, nausea, local pain and swelling usually occurred in patients following rabies vaccination, among whom patients aged younger than 15 years old were more often suffered from fever, vomiting and cough.

Does travel insurance cover rabies?

Not only this, but your travel insurance will not cover a rabies infection if you're unvaccinated. That's why it's vital to get a rabies vaccination for travel if you're planning a trip to an area that's high risk for infection.

Is Mexico considered a high risk country for dogs?

Note: Mexico is not listed as a high-risk country for dog rabies.

Why do Mexicans love dogs so much?

In Mexican culture, dogs symbolize loyalty, protection, and spiritual guidance. The Xoloitzcuintli, an ancient breed, was considered sacred by the Aztecs and believed to guide souls to the afterlife.

Are stray dogs a problem in Mexico?

Overpopulation of stray dogs is a reflection of the usual practice of the owners allowing their dogs to reproduce indiscriminately, coupled with the lack of public programs for dog population control. In Mexico, every year, 7,000 stray dogs are sacrificed [23].

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