Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
» Never drink tap water.
» Bottled water is generally safe - check the seal is intact at purchase.
» Avoid ice.
» Avoid fresh juices - they may have been watered down.
» Boiling water is the most efficient method of purifying it.
» The best chemical purifier is iodine. It should not be used by pregnant women or
those with thyroid problems.
» Water filters should also filter out viruses. Ensure your filter has a chemical barrier
such as iodine and a pore size of less than 4 microns.
Malaria
Malaria has been nearly eradicated in China; it is not generally a risk for visit-
ors to the cities and most tourist areas. It is found mainly in rural areas in the
southwestern region bordering Myanmar, Laos and Vietnam - principally Hain-
an, Yunnan and Guangxi. More limited risk exists in remote rural areas of Fuji-
an, Guangdong, Guizhou and Sichuan. Generally, medication is only advised if
you are visiting rural Hainan, Yunnan or Guangxi.
To prevent malaria, avoid mosquitoes and take antimalaria medications.
Most people who catch malaria are taking inadequate or no antimalaria medic-
ation. Use an insect repellent containing DEET on exposed skin. Natural repel-
lents such as citronella can be effective, but require more frequent application
than products containing DEET.
» Sleep under a mosquito net impregnated with permethrin.
» Choose accommodation with screens and fans (if it's not air-conditioned).
» Impregnate clothing with permethrin in high-risk areas.
» Wear long sleeves and trousers in light colours.
» Use mosquito coils.
» Spray your room with insect repellent before going out for your evening
meal.
