Central Asia water is notorious among travellers- that is besides the high mountain streams of course! Among other bacteria, Giardia is one of the most feared bugs that quickly leads to bad health and an unpleasant experience. The problem with iodine and chlorine tablets is that they leave a bad taste in the mouth, do not kill all bacteria, and are not good for health if used over an extended period. Filters are an excellent alternative but can be very hard work, and are bulky and relatively heavy.
The MIOX on the other hand is extremely light, simple to use, can be used to treat large volumes of water, and kills all problem-causing bugs. It also leaves no taste in the water. Using basic rock salt and a teaspoon or so of water it sends an electric current through the brine solution and creates multi-oxidants. This is then added to the water in question and after 10 minutes all but one problem causing bug is eliminated. After four hours the water is 100 percent purified. This is based on the same system used to treat mains water in towns.
This is the first time that I have used the MIOX which is relatively new technology. The potential problems I for-see are: breakdown of the electrics, running out of battery power in a remote place, not removing particles as such, and not being able to trust the water immediately after treatment (for all bugs a wait of up to four hours is needed although most common bacteria are killed after 10 minutes). But this seems like an acceptable compromise.
Thanks to
MSR for this purifier, provided by the Australian distributor, Spelean!
If in the case that the MIOX does not work out my preferred option is an MSR mini-works filter. It is relatively small, and has a much more practical pumping system than other leading brands.
ON THE ROAD REVIEW
So far the miox purifier has worked extremely well. It's light, easy to use, quick, and as testament to is effectiveness, I have not yet had any real stomach bugas at all despite drinking water from just about everywhere! The batteries last a long time, and it is much more hassle free than a usual pump/purifier. Definitely recommended!
