India is an economically developing democratic republic and has worked very hard to control diseases. Adequate medical care is available in the major population centers, but is usually limited in the rural areas of the country. The cost of treatment is much cheaper here in comparison to the same facilities available in advanced countries. The most important cause of illness of travelers in India is food and waterborne diseases. Diarrhea can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites.
Malaria is a preventable infection that can create trouble if left untreated.
One can prevent infection by taking prescribed anti-malarial drugs and protecting against mosquito bites. Malaria risk in this region exists in some urban and rural areas, depending on the elevation. If someone is visiting the mountainous region of the Himalayas, he should ascend gradually to allow time for the body to adjust to the high altitude, which can cause insomnia, headaches, nausea, and altitude sickness. In addition, one should use sunblock rated at least 15 SPF, because the risk of sunburn is greater at high altitudes. Make sure that the insurance company covers illnesses and accidents abroad.