Health & Medicine
Staying healthy in China: pharmacies, international clinics, water and food safety, air quality, altitude, and insurance.
Last reviewed October 23, 2026 · policies change — confirm the official sources before travel
China’s medical system is functional but mostly Chinese-speaking. For anything serious, international hospitals and clinics in major cities are the reliable choice — and far cheaper than in the US or Europe. Prevention is simple: drink bottled water, eat hot cooked food, and watch the air quality in winter.
Key points
What works in practice
Bring prescriptions in original packaging plus a doctor’s letter for any controlled medication
Note down your hotel’s Chinese address — you will need it at the pharmacy or clinic
Buy travel insurance before departure; local hospitals generally want payment upfront
For altitude destinations like Lhasa, rest for the first 24 hours and avoid alcohol
Boil or filter tap water; even locals rarely drink it straight
Mistakes to avoid
Skipping travel insurance to 'save money' — a hospital visit is affordable, evacuation is not
Bringing medications that require a prescription in China without documentation
Ignoring altitude symptoms and climbing straight off the plane in Tibet
Underestimating summer heat in southern cities — carry water and electrolytes
Frequently asked
What if I get sick and don’t speak Chinese?
Pharmacies usually handle simple cases with translation apps. For real concerns, go to an international clinic — English-speaking doctors and they accept international insurance.
Do I need vaccinations?
No mandatory vaccines for most countries. Consider Hepatitis A and typhoid, and check your home health authority before departure.
Is the tap water safe?
No — drink bottled or boiled water. This is standard advice even for locals.
Questions about your trip?
If you want help with routes or want to ask me something directly, you can find me here.