One of the biggest questions that people tend to have when planning a trip to Mexico is if it is safe to consume tap water or not, particularly when it comes to such basic tasks as rinsing teeth. Tap water in Mexico can be of good or bad quality depending on the area of Mexico and what is safe for consumption in one area may be unsafe in the other. Learning the risks and measures that need to be taken in order to avoid them will help to have a safe experience. In this article the author focuses on the quality of the Mexico tap water, the dangers of its consumption and the advice given by professionals on this issue to help travelers avoid any issues.
Understanding Mexicos Tap Water Quality
Overview of Water Quality Standards in Mexico
Since the government regulates water quality in Mexico, the efficiency of the set standards may differ from one area to another. While in large urban areas and popular tourist attractions, water is often treated to meet the countrys water quality standards, the water systems may be old and some of the water sources may be contaminated. Large hotel and resorts especially those located in the coastal areas have better water quality since they have put in place water treatment facilities to make water safe for use by guests. However, in the rural and small towns, the water is likely to be contaminated with bacteria, viruses or any other pathogen at any time. This makes it very important for tourists to be very careful on the type of water they consume to avoid getting sick.
Common Issues with Mexico Tap Water
The main problem of Mexican tap water is contamination with microorganisms that can lead to the development of gastrointestinal diseases. These pathogens such as bacteria for example E.coli are very much prone to pollute water sources mainly as a result of unsanitary conditions and inadequate water purification procedures. Another issue is that the contamination with heavy metals can be an issue especially in areas that have old plumbing systems. Also, water pollution by chemical substances which may get into the water from the use of chemicals in agriculture or from industrial effluents makes water even more unsafe. Even where water is treated, the distribution networks may be somewhat efficient hence the water may get contaminated before it gets to the consumer. Due to these reasons, water safety of the tourists is a very important issue, and care should be taken while using the tap water for consumption, or for other basic activities like washing the teeth.
Brushing Teeth with Tap Water in Mexico: Risks and Recommendations
Potential Health Risks of Using Tap Water
Drinking Mexican tap water is dangerous when used to brush teeth because the water may contain bacteria or other dangerous chemicals. However, an act as simple as brushing the teeth entails contact with mucous membranes in the mouth through which bacterial/viral or any other pathogen may gain access into the body. This can culminate to some form of gastrointestinal upset such as travelers diarrhea commonly due to consumption of contaminated water. In more severe cases, serious health effects could be expected if the person is exposed to some of the chemicals or heavy metals that may be available in the water. To the tourists, these risks mean that they should avoid using tap water for brushing teeth as even a small quantity will cause discomfort or lead to an illness during their stay.
Expert Recommendations for Tourists
Due to these dangers, specialists recommend that people should not drink or use Mexican tap water for such activities as brushing teeth and the likes, especially those who are visitors to the country. Rather than this tap water should be replaced with bottled water which is easily accessible and safer to use. In the absence of bottled water, tap water can also be used if it is boiled for at least one minute in order to eliminate the bacteria. Some tourists also take water purification tablets or portable water filters, which helps to eliminate the contaminants. Besides, one should not swallow any water while brushing the teeth since this may lead to consumption of dangerous pathogens. These recommendations from experts would assist tourists in managing their health and avoid being affected by the water borne diseases which would in turn make their trip to Mexico much more joyful.
Alternative Water Sources for Tourists
Using Bottled Water and Purification Methods
If one is worried about the quality of water in Mexico then the only best way is to make sure that water that you are taking is bottled water. Canned water is easily accessible in all the places of Mexico including small towns and rural areas. It is recommended that proper confirmation be made to ensure that the bottles are closed properly so as to ensure that there is no tampering. Other options include, portable water filters, UV light purifiers, purification tablets and last but not the least, bottled water.
How Hotels and Resorts Ensure Water Safety
Some hotels and resorts specifically in Mexico go out of their way to ensure that the tourists are safe in water since the water they are supplied to them is filtered or purified. In business facilities water purification units are used to filter water from the tap to make it safe for drinking and rinsing teeth. Some of the resorts have even gone to the extent of providing and offering bottled water in the rooms for easier access by the guests. This should be done by asking the management of the place you are staying in about the treatment of water and use the water provided for drinking, cooking or any other use.
Conclusion
Mexico is a beautiful place to visit and thus tourists should be careful when they use water so that they do not diminish the beauty of the country. Though, drinking and brushing teeth with Mexico tap water is not recommended, using bottled water combined with proper hygiene will greatly minimize the risk of waterborne disease. Being aware of the possible dangers and being cautious while using any other water sources means that your health is always safe while you are there. However, with the right preparations, a one can be able to tour Mexico and experience its colorful culture and amazing geology while at the same time avoiding the dangerous acts.
