Diseases from water and food are common in many countries. You can catch them from:

  • drinking or using contaminated water
  • drinking any beverage with ice cubes made with tap water
  • eating food washed with tap water
  • brushing your teeth or washing your face with tap water
  • eating contaminated food, including meals prepared by people who are sick, or following poor hygiene practices
  • taking part in activities in contaminated water, such as swimming or water sports.

Reduce your risk of diseases from food or water

If you're in a destination where diseases like hepatitis A, typhoid and cholera are common:

  • drink boiled, bottled or treated water
  • avoid drinking or using tap water to clean your teeth
  • avoid ice cubes - some restaurants may use water straight from the tap
  • only eat food that is served hot, or that you peel or cook yourself
  • avoid fresh salads and raw vegetables
  • wash or sanitise your hands often
  • avoid contact with water or soil that may be contaminated with urine or stools
  • in some places you may need to avoid swimming or wading in any fresh water (lake, rivers, streams).

Vaccinations are recommended to prevent some food and water borne infections, such as Typhoid and Hepatitis A for visitors to countries where these infections are prevalent.

Find out more


Current as at: Thursday 22 December 2022
Contact page owner: Health Protection NSW