Health & safety: United States
Can you drink the tap water in United States?
Tap water meets EPA safe drinking water standards nationwide. Exceptions: some rural well water, post-hurricane areas. Bottled water tastes vary by region.
Food safety in United States
Food safety standards are high. Street food is regulated. Risks: raw shellfish, undercooked beef in tourist areas, leftovers in hot weather.
Vaccinations
Required for entry
None required for entry.
Recommended by CDC/WHO
- Routine US schedule current (MMR, Tdap, COVID)
- Hepatitis A if visiting rural areas
- Influenza in winter
Always check the CDC traveler's health page 4-6 weeks before departure for current recommendations.
Altitude warnings
Denver (1,600m), Colorado ski resorts (2,500-3,500m), Mt Whitney (4,420m), Mauna Kea (4,200m). Most US altitude is moderate.
Mosquito-borne diseases
West Nile virus Jun-Oct (Mid-Atlantic, Southwest). Lyme disease ticks Apr-Sep (Northeast).
Heat risk
Phoenix + Vegas + Southern states Jun-Sep — easily 40°C+. Hydrate aggressively.
Emergency medical infrastructure
World-class hospitals in every major city. Costs without insurance are catastrophic — emergency room visit easily $3,000-30,000. Travel insurance with $250k+ medical is essential.