All water, particularly outside main centres, should be regarded as being a potential health risk. Water used for drinking, brushing teeth or making ice should have first been boiled or otherwise sterilised. Milk is pasteurised and dairy products are safe for consumption. Only eat well-cooked meat and fish, preferably served hot. Vegetables should be cooked and fruit peeled.

Vaccinations against tuberculosis and hepatitis B are sometimes advised.

Emergency health care is available free of charge for visitors although, as in most parts of the former Soviet Union, medical care in Uzbekistan is inadequate and there are extreme financial problems. Doctors and hospitals often expect cash payment for health services. There is a severe shortage of basic medical supplies, including disposable needles, anaesthetics, antibiotics and vaccines. Travellers are therefore advised to take a well-equipped first-aid kit with them containing basic medicines and any prescriptions that they may need. For minor difficulties, visitors are advised to ask the management at their hotel for help. In case of emergency, travellers should get a referral from either the Tashkent International Medical Clinic or from the appropriate embassy, since foreigners are strongly advised not to approach local health care facilities without somebody who knows local conditions and the language. For major problems, visitors are well advised to seek help outside the country. Travel insurance is essential.