Staying Healthy on Your Mount Everest Expedition
Stomach bugs are the second biggest dream-killer on Everest trekking trips (after altitude). Ensuring your water is safe is critical for reaching Everest Base Camp.
Teahouses sell boiled water. It is safe but expensive as you go higher. It is also great for filling a hot water bottle to keep your sleeping bag warm at night on your Everest expedition.
Chlorine or Iodine tablets are lightweight and cheap. They take 30 minutes to work. They are the backup method for most trekkers. The taste can be masked with Vitamin C powder.
SteriPEN (UV light) is fast and effective but relies on batteries. Mechanical filters like Sawyer or LifeStraw are great but can freeze in high altitudes near the Mount Everest summit approach.
Avoid buying plastic bottled water. It creates waste in the national park. Treat your own water to save money and the environment.