Observe the strictest temperance. Don’t indulge in tonics or nostrums. A little quinine is the safest tonic. If thirsty drop an acid powder in your drinking water, or take a sip of cold tea.
Use an umbrella when in the sun. The best head dress is a cork helmet, or Congo cap.
If in a perspiration when wetted by rain or at a river crossing, change your dress immediately.
Go on a march in very light clothing, and let it be of flannel, with light russet shoes for the feet.
When permanently stationed, wear light clothing in order to avoid excessive perspiration when called on for sudden duty.
Don’t fail to exercise freely. Have certain hours for it, morning and evening, if your work is in doors.
Do not bathe in cold water, especially after you are in the country for a time. Water below 85° in temperature is dangerous.
Tropical fruits should be eaten only at breakfast.
Medicines specially prepared for tropical diseases can always be had of European druggists, and a supply should be on hand.
The diseases of central Africa are simple, consisting of dysentery and three kinds of fever, ague, remittent, and bilious.