How can I avoid getting sick or injured while exploring the wilderness?

In Red Dead Redemption 2, staying healthy while exploring the wilderness is crucial for maintaining Arthur Morgan''s stamina, health, and overall performance. The game simulates realistic survival mechanics, meaning Arthur can get sick, injured, or even die if you neglect his needs. To avoid these issues, you must manage his health, hygiene, and exposure to environmental hazards.\n\nFirst, always keep an eye on Arthur''s core stats: Health, Stamina, and Dead Eye. These cores deplete over time and are affected by injuries, illnesses, and poor nutrition. To maintain them, ensure Arthur eats regularly. Cooked meat, canned goods, and fresh produce are excellent sources of sustenance. Avoid raw meat, as it can cause food poisoning. You can hunt animals like deer, rabbits, or birds and cook their meat at campfires to create meals that restore cores and provide buffs.\n\nHygiene is another critical factor. Arthur can get dirty from mud, blood, or prolonged exposure to the wilderness. Dirty clothes and a grimy appearance can lower his health core over time. To stay clean, bathe in rivers, lakes, or at bathhouses in towns like Valentine or Saint Denis. You can also wash your clothes at camp or pay for laundry services in towns. Keeping Arthur clean prevents illnesses and improves interactions with NPCs.\n\nEnvironmental hazards, such as extreme weather, can also harm Arthur. In cold regions like the Grizzlies, wear warm clothing like coats, gloves, and hats to avoid hypothermia. Conversely, in hot areas like New Austin, wear lighter outfits to prevent overheating. Always check the weather forecast in the game''s map menu and adjust your attire accordingly. If caught in a storm, seek shelter or build a campfire to stay warm and dry.\n\nInjuries are another common issue. Arthur can get hurt from falls, animal attacks, or gunfights. Always carry health tonics, potent medicines, and bandages in your satchel. These items can be purchased from general stores or crafted using herbs like Yarrow or Ginseng. If Arthur is injured, use these items immediately to stop bleeding and restore health. Additionally, avoid reckless behavior like jumping off cliffs or engaging in unnecessary fights.\n\nDiseases, such as tuberculosis or cholera, can also affect Arthur. To minimize the risk, avoid close contact with sick NPCs and stay away from contaminated areas like swamps. If Arthur contracts an illness, visit a doctor in towns like Rhodes or Strawberry for treatment. Early intervention can prevent the condition from worsening.\n\nFinally, always be prepared for emergencies. Stock up on essential items like food, medicine, and ammunition before venturing into the wilderness. Use your horse''s saddlebags to carry extra supplies and ensure your horse is well-fed and rested. A healthy horse is vital for quick escapes or long journeys.\n\nBy following these tips, you can keep Arthur healthy and ready for any challenge the wilderness throws at him. Prioritize his needs, stay vigilant, and always plan ahead to avoid unnecessary risks.