This illness that can last a few days, is indicated by
diarrhea and sometimes fever, and requires complete bed rest. It results
from exposure to different bacteria from those you are used to at home
because Mexico purifies its water differently. (Mexicans visiting the
United States are often similarly affected by unfamiliar bacteria.)
There is no guaranteed method for preventing it and the
amount that it affects you depends on your immune system.
Food
Common sense can greatly reduce your chances of coming down with food or
water related illnesses. Firstly, do not over indulge in spicy Mexican
foods and pitchers of margaritas or strong Mexican beer during the first
few days of your trip. Eat and drink in moderation.
Go slowly if you are not used to the Mexican spices
and cooking.
Like many countries, do not eat from street vendors since they tend to
be less sanitary. Only eat foods that have been thoroughly cooked and
are served either oven-hot or refrigerator-cold. Many people eat at
street vendors' stalls without problems, but you should be cautious.
Be sure your unpeeled raw vegetables and fruit are washed in purified
water and dried with a clean cloth. Peeled and thoroughly cooked
vegetables are okay, as the boiling water will sanitize them.
Water
Bottled Water is the absolutely safest drinking water. Many first-rate
hotels use purified water (agua purificada) in their taps.
Budget hotels may provide agua purificada in bottles
or carafes. Request beverages sin hielo (without ice) - do not take
chances. More up-scale establishments use purified water for everything,
but be sure to ask.
For a glass of cold water, drink a chilled bottle of
Mexico's mineral water (called agua mineral; sin gas if you don't want
it carbonated).
Treatment
Many people swear by advance daily doses of chewable Pepto-Bismol to
prevent illness. Treatment of turista depends on the intensity.
f you do have a serious bout, stay in bed, restrict
yourself to a bland diet, drink plenty of bottled water, and take
the medicine your doctor recommends.
(Many are available over the counter in Mexico.) Your
hotel will arrange a doctor for you if you become concerned about your
condition.
Mexican doctors are experts in treating
turista, so you should not feel hesitant about consulting them. Once
you're better, continue with a bland diet until you feel back to normal.
