Any passenger undertaking a trek is required to complete a medical questionnaire. The appropriate form is included with this booklet. Please have it completed and returned to us not less than 2 months prior to departure. If you book within 3 months of your departure, this form should be returned within 2 weeks of booking. If you are considered unfit by your doctor, your deposit will be returned to you only if you cancel within three weeks of booking your trek. If this is not received, it could nullify an insurance claim relating to illness.

Diamox
On many of our high altitude treks and climbs (above 3500m) we carry Diamox for the prevention and treatment of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness). Our leaders are trained in the use of this drug and we have found it to be extremely effective. However, it can cause a sulphur allergy in some people and we recommend that you discuss taking the drug with your doctor prior to departure. Side-effects include tingling feeling in fingers, lips and toes (not serious) and dehydration that is generally manageable through increased fluid intake.

Vaccinations
For entry into NEPAL there are no statutory vaccinations. However, we strongly recommend protection against typhoid, polio, tetanus, meningitis and hepatitis A. Immunization for cholera is no longer considered necessary unless an outbreak has been reported in the area you may be traveling - you should always check with your doctor or medical centre for current information.

It is your responsibility to bring sufficient quantities of any specific medications you require. Consult your doctor before departure so that he / she knows the conditions under which you will be taking any medication.

Let us know what you’re taking and in what dosages. Advise us of any possible side effects of any medication you take and of any dietary requirements related to taking them and be sure to let us know to which drugs you have an allergy. On most trips, you will be isolated from modern medical facilities, so attention to medical matters is vital.

Keeping Healthy in Nepal
* We advise you to be conservative in regard to the restaurants that you frequent before your trek. We will recommend adequate restaurants to suit your budget.
* Wash your hands before you eat. Use Purel, Wet Wipes or the like before all meals. It is best to allow them to drip dry as opposed to towel drying.
* You will be trekking in the tropics, and as you gain altitude, the atmosphere is rarer and provides less filtering effect for the sun's rays. Be aware of this and protect yourself from the sun with factor 15+ sun cream, collared t-shirts, hats etc.
* Keep your fluid intake high. Be generous in the amount of water you drink rather than drink too little. Powdered electrolyte replacement such as Gatorade is a useful drink additive.
* It is not recommended that you handle any animal anywhere at any time. Do not encourage any animals to the guesthouses.