Nepal Health Care and Vaccinations

Health Care

The most convenient hospital for visitor care is Patan Hospital in Lagankhel. Other hospitals include the Western Regional Hospital and the Manipal Hospital in Pokhara and the Mission Hospital in Tansen. Pharmacies in Kathmandu offer a wide range of Western drugs at low prices. In Kathmandu, you can get certain vaccinations free at the Infectious Diseases Clinic. Full medical insurance is essential.

Food and Drink

All water should be regarded as potentially contaminated. Water used for drinking, brushing teeth or making ice should have first been boiled or sterilised. Milk is unpasteurised and should be boiled. Powdered or tinned milk is available and advised. Avoid dairy products likely to have been made from unboiled milk. Only eat well-cooked meat and fish. Vegetables should be cooked and fruit peeled.

Other Risks

Vaccinations against Japanese B encephalitis, meningococcal meningitis, tuberculosis and hepatitis B are sometimes recommended. Altitude sickness is a hazard for trekkers – it is important to gain altitude gradually and come down to a lower altitude immediately if experiencing headaches, nausea or dizziness. Obtain further advice from the Himalayan Rescue Association. It is advisable, particularly when in rural areas, to carry a medical kit.