What shots do I need for Latin America and the Caribbean?
If you are traveling to Latin America or the Caribbean, there is a good chance you'll need some shots. The shots you need will depend on (a) where you're going, (b) how long you're staying, (c) what you will be doing while there, and (d) your immunization and medical history.
Latin America/Caribbean vaccine checklist
CDC vaccine recommendations for countries in Latin America and the Caribbean
Yellow fever and typhoid in Latin America and the Caribbean
Typhoid and yellow fever are the two most frequently recommended vaccines for travel to Latin America and the Caribbean. In some cases, proof of yellow fever immunization (which is provided via yellow card) is required for entry into the country. Both of these vaccines are safe and effective. Both of the diseases they protect against are deadly or disabling.
Typhoid vaccine: This vaccine provides protection from typhoid fever which is mainly spread through contaminated water. You can choose from an oral vaccine or an injection.
Yellow fever vaccine: This vaccine protects against yellow fever virus which is spread by mosquitoes.
You may need malaria pills too
There is currently no vaccine in the U.S. for malaria but there are drugs you can take to help prevent malaria. Talk to a travel health specialist about your options. Whether you need to take malaria pills really depends on where you go and what you're doing while there.
Map shows 2020 incidences of malaria in children (Malaria Atlas Project)