Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
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Health
Norway is, in general, a very healthy place and no special precautions are necessary when
visiting. The biggest risks are likely to be viral infections in winter, sunburn and insect bites
in summer, and foot blisters from too much hiking.
Availability & Cost of Health Care
If you do fall ill while in Norway, you will be very well looked after as health care is excellent.
Most medications are available, but they may go by a different name than at home, so be
sure to have the generic name, as well as the brand name. If carrying syringes or needles,
be sure to have a physician's letter documenting their medical necessity. For minor ill-
nesses, pharmacists can dispense valuable advice and over-the-counter medication.
Like almost everything else, medical care can be prohibitively expensive in Norway and
insurance is a must.
Water
Tap water is always safe to drink in Norway, but it's wise to beware of drinking from
streams, as even the clearest and most inviting water may harbour giardia and other para-
sites. For extended hikes where you must rely on natural water sources, the simplest way
of purifying water is to boil it thoroughly; at high altitude water boils at a lower temperature,
so germs are less likely to be killed. Boil it for longer in these environments (up to 10
minutes).
If you cannot boil water, it should be treated chemically. Chlorine tablets (Puritabs, Sterit-
abs or other brands) will kill many pathogens, but not giardia and amoebic cysts. Iodine is
more effective in purifying water and is available in tablet form (such as Potable Aqua). Too
much iodine can be harmful.
