Staying Healthy on the Road: Water, Food, and a First-Aid Kit

Most travel health issues are easy to prevent with a few simple precautions.

Water

Tap water isn’t recommended — bottled water is sold everywhere and is cheap. The same goes for water used for brushing teeth in smaller towns.

Food

Street food in Uzbekistan is generally safe, especially when it’s cooked in front of you at a busy stall. Be more cautious with mayonnaise-based salads in hot weather and unpasteurized dairy at small teahouses.

Sun and heat

In summer (June-August), the real risk is heat exhaustion and dehydration. Drink water more often than you think you need to, and avoid long stretches in direct sun during midday.

A travel first-aid kit

Anti-diarrheal medication, painkillers, antiseptic, sunburn relief, and a buffer supply of any personal prescription medications — pharmacies in major cities are well stocked, but selection is limited in smaller towns.

Travel insurance

Travel insurance with medical coverage is recommended for any trip — private clinics in major cities are good, but they’re paid services.

This is general advice, not medical guidance — consult a doctor before your trip if you have a chronic condition.