Health: pharmacies, water and medical care

Water and food

Don't drink tap water without boiling it — bottled water is sold everywhere. Wash fruit and vegetables thoroughly.

Uzbek food is filling and rich; go easy on plov and fatty dishes for the first few days and drink green tea. Pack something for upset stomachs and oral rehydration salts.

Heat and sun

In summer a hat, sunscreen and sunglasses are essential. Drink plenty of water and avoid long spells outdoors in the hottest hours.

Nights in the mountains are cool, so bring a warm layer.

Pharmacies

Pharmacies are on every corner in the cities, and some are open around the clock. Many medicines are sold without prescription, but brand names may differ — note down the generic name of anything you take.

Bring enough of your regular medication in its original packaging (see our customs article for the rules).

Medical care

In an emergency call 103 or the single number 112. Tashkent has private clinics with English-speaking doctors; medical care in the provinces is more basic.

Take out travel insurance that also covers medical evacuation. Talk to your own doctor about vaccinations before you go.