MALARIA SHOTS?

DOES EVERYONE GET MALARIA SHOTS B4 TRAVELING TO BELIZE? I PLAN ON SPENDING 1 WK OR SO IN AC & 1 WEEK CHECKING OUT THE MAINLAND.

CDC-Malaria in Belize
I'm not aware of any Malaria shot, but there are pills that you can (should) take. My personal opinion is that anyone who will be on the mainland for more than a daytrip should use Malaria prophylaxis.
My kids and I are current on our shots, but I am asking my husband to get poked for Hep A, tetanus and diphtheria. It can't hurt (ok, well maybe a little ) and it just might help.
For more info: CDC-Central America Travel Reccommendations
Whatever you decide, have a safe and happy trip

We didn't get Malaria shots, and have made several trips to BZ. My husband, who lives on the island about 6 months a year--and travels to the mainland--was given a pill to take one day a week while he is down there. But he has never taken them. We asked alot of people, tourists and residents, and it does not seem like a necessary thing. But if it will put your mind at ease and help you enjoy your trip, then go ahead and get something.
You'll have a GREAT trip!!

never had such a shot in many many trips

There is definitely no shot against malaria. Different strains of malaria requre different preventative methods. There are several different things that provide passive protection against Malaria, most have quinine in them (all are taken orally). Some of these pills have side effects, so one needs to check wth a professional before making a decision on what to do. One bite is unlikely to give you a case of malaria - it seems that repreated exposure elevates the risk. If you decide to use the preventative pills, you need to begin taking them two weeks prior to your trip.

Thanks for the info...so do most people who visit Belize take the Malaria pills?
I'm coming to AC & planning on making 2-4 day mainland trips. I don't want to take anything, but of course want to be safe. I'm traveling with a six year old child..

the most common reply would be, I think, No...we don't take the pills.....but if it makes ya feel better.............. :p

MY HUBBY AND I NEVER TOOK ANY PILLS OR ANY THING BUT I CAN SAY DONT PLAN ON GIVING ANY BLOOD FOR ONE YEAR AFTER YOU RETURN. THEY TURNED US DOWN! BUT DO WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL SAFE. ENJOY !! CARRIE

I believe (though I'm not 100% sure) that the American Red Cross has changed its policy on not accepting blood if you have been in a malaria area or have taking malaria meds.

--Lan Sluder

I was recently told by my doctor that there IS at least a 1 year wait to donate blood after returning from Belize.

i went inland twice. never any pills. i found miuch more biting critters on AC.

inland, skintastic is fine. get deep woods off if it makes you feel better.