Medical Facilities

• Kathmandu has well-equipped hospitals and pharmacies, including imported medicines.
• Rural areas have government health posts but with limited facilities.

Preventive Measures

• Food safety: Eat only thoroughly cooked meals. Avoid food left standing for long periods.
• Drink bottled water—never tap water.
• Dairy caution: Avoid unpasteurized milk. Boiled milk and yogurt are usually safe.
• Personal hygiene: Wash hands frequently and brush teeth with purified water.
• Dress appropriately: Protect yourself from extreme weather conditions and insects.
• Avoid walking barefoot to prevent infections.

Recommended Immunizations

No mandatory vaccinations, but consider:

• Cholera, meningitis, tetanus, diphtheria, typhoid, and hepatitis A & B.
• A general pre-travel health check-up is advised.

First Aid Kit Recommendations

• Pain relievers: Aspirin, Paracetamol (Acetaminophen).
• Antihistamines: For allergies and motion sickness.
• Antibiotics: If traveling off the beaten track (prescription required).
• Stomach remedies: Pepto-Bismol, Imodium, rehydration salts.
• Wound care: Antiseptic, bandages, tweezers, scissors.
• Insect repellent, sunblock, throat lozenges.

Altitude Sickness (AMS)

Altitude sickness can affect anyone above 8,000 ft. Symptoms may include headaches, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath.

Prevention Tips:

• Stay hydrated—drink plenty of water.
• Acclimatize gradually and eat small, frequent meals.
• Report any symptoms to your group leader.
• Do not ignore mild symptoms, as AMS can become serious.

(AMS is only a concern for high-altitude trekking.)