Visiting El Salvador is Easier, Healthier, and Safer

Over the past few days, announcements have indicated more people may visit the Republic of El Salvador next year.

On November 1, 2024, Volaris El Salvador and Miami International Airport officials celebrated the launch of four weekly nonstop flights between San Salvador and Miami, Florida. In 2025, additional U.S. cities will also offer direct flights to this Central American destination.

On November 8, 2024, the U.S. Embassy in El Salvador reported significantly reducing gang-related activity and associated crime in the last two years. Recognizing these positive changes, the U.S. Department of State reduced its travel advisory to Level 2.

To keep visitors informed of local issues, the State Department recommends using major highways and roads and minimizing travel outside metropolitan areas when visiting El Salvador. It also recommends that visitors enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to receive alerts and make locating you in an emergency easier.

From a health perspective, the U.S. CDC says dengue outbreaks are a year-round risk in many parts of the world, including El Salvador. As of November 2024, over 7,200 dengue cases were reported, an increase from the 5,788 cases confirmed last year.

Additionally, chikungunya, another mosquito-transmitted disease, has been confirmed in 47 people this year.

"For U.S. travelers with plans to visit El Salvador, it's essential to receive the hepatitis A and typhoid fever vaccines before visiting because you'll want to sample many of the excellent Salvadorian foods while on vacation. Be sure you're up-to-date on all routine vaccines, like hepatitis B, flu, measles (MMR), and tetanus," Jeri Beales, MSN, R.N., informed Vax-Before-Travel.

"Mosquitos are also a problem throughout El Salvador, and cases of dengue fever are on the rise this year. Unfortunately, no vaccine is available in the U.S. to protect people against dengue, so be sure to use an insect repellant with at least 20% DEET."

"But, the good news for U.S. travelers is you can now vaccinate (IXCHIQ®) against the chikungunya illness and travelers no longer need to take malaria medication while in El Salvador because it has been eradicated from all parts of the country," added Beales, who leads Destination Health Clinic. This Boston-area travel health provider specializes in health education and vaccination for international travelers.

The CDC suggests visiting your healthcare provider at least a month before your trip to El Salvador to acquire necessary vaccines such as chikungunya or typhoid. Visit the CDC's page for the latest Travel Health Information.