Health

Holidays by Destination Asia Hong Kong Health 

Except on outer islands tap water is drinkable though bottled tastes better. Locals like their food superfresh and cooked on the spot so except for shellfish of dubious origin, you should be fine if you stick to this. However, the heat plus the less familiar bacteria might result in a gippy tummy, particularly in small children in which case plenty of liquids for 24 hours and then simple noodles or rice are the easiest approach.

If anything requires medical advice the city has high quality medical facilities but will cost, so insurance is important. For lesser problems pharmacies can prescribe basic medicines and particularly in central areas may well have an English speaker. Your hotel concierge may be able to recommend a doctor (though note that the term also refers to dentists here), or they can be located in the Yellow Pages. Because many train overseas they often speak English.

Chinese herbal medicine has a long and respected history and is widely used in Hong Kong. However, shops do not often have staff who speak English and some of the products used are very powerful so you need to make sure you are dealing with somewhere truly expert before trying anything, particularly on a child.

The main issues to watch for however are related to the heat. A hat which covers the nape of the neck is important and prickly heat is a strong possibility. Cool cotton clothing, regular showers and keeping skin dry will help. For more see the section in Health under Practicalities.