Peter Greenberg: Drinking Water in Mexico
By: Peter Greenberg | Source: AARP.org | 2008-07-02
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After hearing so many horror stories of people getting violently ill from the water in Mexico for so many years, is it still a major health issue? We own a timeshare so I would be doing a good part of my food preparation. Thank you.
-Linda, Washington, N.J.
Mexico has made some progress cleaning up its drinking water, but you're right that Montezuma's Revenge is still a problem throughout Mexico and in dozens of countries around the world. Many of the newer and upscale resorts and restaurants will use purified water. In some, there is an on-site purification system. Your timeshare should let you know what the specific situation is.
Commercially-produced beverages (sodas, wine, beer, etc.) should be safe--just watch out for ice, which is often made with regular tap water.
In Mexico, there generally aren't problems with purified bottled water being replaced with dirty tap water and sold to tourists. Just make sure the cap is sealed when you're purchasing bottled water, and you should be fine. Finally, watch out for salads and fresh fruits and vegetables. If these are washed with unpurified tap water, they could be covered in bacterial nasties. If you're washing your own fruits and veggies, make sure you use only purified water.
There's also an innovative little gadget called the Steripen that could be a big help if you're worried. Basically, this small handheld device zaps bacteria and even viruses with UV light. Just stick it in a glass of water, hit the button, and wait for about a minute as UV rays safely purify the water. The light clicks off automatically when it's done, signaling your water is now safe to drink.
The cheapest model costs about $80 and is widely available online and at outdoor supply stores. Just don't forget the batteries (it takes alkaline, lithium, or rechargeable batteries). As an added bonus, you're sure to make new friends when curious onlookers wonder what the heck you're doing to your water.
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