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                 HEALTH TIPS

Going to India, you have to adapt to a new climate and new food.
Most travellers to India will become at least slightly ill during their
stay there - even Indians returning from abroad. However, with
precautions the chance and severity of any illness can be
minimized. Don't stress yourself too much at the beginning of
your journey to allow your body to acclimatize to the country. For
example, take a day of rest upon arrival, at least on your first
visit. Many travellers get ill for wanting to do too much in too little
time. Be careful with spicy food if it is not your daily diet.

No vaccinations are required for entry to India, except for yellow
fever if you are coming from an infected area such as Africa.
However, Hepatitis (both A and B, depending on your individual
circumstances), meningitis and typhoid shots are recommended,
as is a booster shot for tetanus.

Tap water is generally not safe for drinking. However, some
establishments have water filters/purifiers installed, in which case
the water is safe to drink. Packed drinking water (normally called
mineral water) is a better choice. But if the seal has been
tampered, it could be purified tap water. So always make sure
that seal is intact before buying.

Fruits that can be peeled such as apples and bananas, as well as
packaged snacks are always a safe option. Do not eat grapes
unless you wash them thouroughly.

Diarrhea is common, and can have many different causes. Bring
a standard first-aid kit, plus extra over-the-counter medicine for
diarrhea and stomach upset. A rehydration kit can also be
helpful. At the least, remember the salt/sugar/water ratio for oral
rehydration: 1 tsp salt, 8 tsp sugar, for 1 litre of water. Most
Indians will happily share their own advice for treatment of
illnesses and other problems. A commonly recommended cure-all
is to eat boiled rice and curd (yoghurt) together for 3 meals a day
until you're better. Keep in mind that this is usually not sound
medical advice. Indians have resistance to native bacteria and
parasites that visitors do not have. If you have serious diarrhea
for more than a day or two, it is best to visit a private hospital.
Parasites are a common cause of diarrhea, and may not get
better without treatment.

Malaria is endemic throughout India. CDC states that risk exists in
all areas, including the cities of Delhi and Mumbai, and at
altitudes of less than 2000 metres in Himachal Pradesh, Jammu,
Kashmir, and Sikkim; however, the risk of infection is considered
low in Delhi and northern India. Get expert advice on malaria
preventatives, and take adequate precautions to prevent
mosquito bites. Use a mosquito repellent when going outside
(particularly during the evenings) and also when sleeping
in trains and hotels without airconditioning. A local mosquito
repellent used by Indians is Odomos and is available at most
stores.

Getting vaccinations and blood transfusions in India increases
your risk of contracting HIV/AIDS-even in many private hospitals.
If you need to visit a hospital in India, avoid government hospitals.
The quality of treatment is poor. Private hospitals provide better
service.