Eat and drink safely

Many people suffer from an upset stomach or diarrhoea because of something they have eaten or drunk abroad.

More seriously, cholera, typhoid and hepatitis A can be contracted from contaminated food and water.

Don’t get ill

• always wash your hands after going to the toilet, before handling food and before eating
• use bottled water if you have any doubts about the quality of the water. Check the seals are unbroken
• boil water or filter it using a water 'purifier' – this is more effective than sterilisation tablets
• eat fresh, thoroughly cooked food that is still piping hot
• avoid food that has been kept warm

You should avoid

• ice used in drinks and used to keep food cool, unless you’re sure it is made from treated or chlorinated water
• uncooked fruit and vegetables, unless you can peel them yourself
• food exposed to flies
• ice cream from unreliable sources, such as kiosks or mobile traders
• milk, cheese and other dairy products unless they are pasteurised and have been properly refrigerated
• undercooked or raw seafood or shellfish
• excessive amounts of alcohol

Drug-assisted crime

Unfortunately, drugs are increasingly being used in rape and other crime.  

Once someone has added drugs to your drink, you won’t normally be able to detect them. Rape drugs can also work in non-alcoholic drinks, such as coffee and tea.  

They are normally colourless and tasteless, and can make you virtually unconscious and defenceless.

Never leave drinks unattended and its best not to accept drinks from strangers.

If you begin to feel strange, sick or drunk after only a couple of drinks tell a trusted friend. They should take you to a safe place, such as your hotel room.

If you are alone, phone the local police, a hospital or the British Consulate. And always try to drink responsibly - alcohol is the most frequently used drug in drug-assisted rape.