Even so, during their first few months of living here, many expatriates seem to suffer frequently from upper respiratory infections and gastrointestinal problems.

Hong Kong’s hot and humid climate, along with relatively high levels of air pollution, constitutes a starkly different environment to what many newcomers are used to back home. Combine this with the stresses of relocating and hectic urban life, and suddenly the reasons for falling ill become obvious.

But given time to adjust to the city’s pace of life and establish a routine, most manage to carve out enough time to look after their physical and mental wellbeing. The government’s efforts to improve air quality have shown progress, and Hong Kongers care increasingly about living healthier lifestyles — incorporating better diets, more exercise and time with friends and family into their schedules.

This healthy living trend can also be observed in the growing number of health food outlets and fitness venues in Hong Kong, as well as from greater corporate dialogue advocating work-life balance and social responsibility.

Prevention is indeed better than cure, but when a cure is needed, it can be entrusted to Hong Kong’s reputable healthcare system and network of highly trained professionals. The city’s high-quality public and private medical infrastructure should bring peace of mind to anyone making use of it.