Health & safety: China
Tap water
Not safe
Food safety
Caution
Can you drink the tap water in China?
Tap water NOT safe to drink anywhere. Boil or use bottled. Hot tea standard for this reason.
Food safety in China
Street food risky if not from busy, high-turnover stalls. Restaurants in major cities OK. Risk: untrustworthy oil, undercooked meat.
Vaccinations
Required for entry
None required for entry.
Recommended by CDC/WHO
- Hepatitis A + B
- Typhoid
- Japanese Encephalitis if rural
- Rabies if outdoor activities
Always check the CDC traveler's health page 4-6 weeks before departure for current recommendations.
Altitude warnings
Tibet (3,500-5,000m+) — serious altitude. Lhasa 3,600m. Acclimatize 2-3 days. Diamox prescribed before travel.
Mosquito-borne diseases
Japanese Encephalitis in summer in rural areas. Some dengue in Guangdong/Hainan.
Heat risk
Beijing + Shanghai Jul-Aug 35°C+ humid. Inland (Wuhan, Chongqing) worse.
Emergency medical infrastructure
International hospitals in Beijing/Shanghai excellent. Cash payment + insurance essential. Rural areas limited.