Deadly Water, Travellers Beware!
Boiling water kills organisms that cause dysentery, and parasitic worms, and so on. By the time the water reaches the boiling point, it is safe to drink. But safer to boil the water for one minute---cover and cool to room temperature.
Alternatively, you can purchase water filters that consist of a fine filter and iodine treatment, at sporting goods or travel stores [avoid if pregnant]. Read package to insure that it will filter bacteria, and parasites. Household bleach [4-6% chlorine] will sterilize water. Add two drops per one litre [quart] of clean water---or four drops in a litre of cloudy water [strain first]. Mix and let stand for thirty minutes. If it has a slight odor of chlorine, then it's okay, otherwise repeat chlorination and let stand another fifteen minutes.
You can purchase tetraglycine hydroperiodide tablets and halzone tablets from pharmacies and sporting goods stores. Buy them before you leave because they may not be available where you're going. Travellers are wise to consume only bottled water, soda, beer, and wine while in foreign countries--but bottled water is not always the answer so be wary.
Published reports have shown that some countries' manufacturing processes for bottled water aren't adequate. Improperly bottled water can cause cholera, typhoid, and "Traveller's Disease". Scientists recommend that bottled water be ozonated, carbonated, or disinfected in some manner and always kept refrigerated. Clean the outside of the bottle cap and neck before and after use, with hot soapy water or a chlorine solution.
Bottled water, or any other kind, should not be used to clean contact lenses. Use only those products prepared for use with contact lenses. In the case of Traveller's Disease, antibiotics should be used, except with very mild cases---and plenty of fluids are recommended to prevent dehydration.
But play it safe!
By Margot B. margotb@wonderport.com "
