Gloucester Travel Clinic

    Travel Health: Vietnam

    Essential vaccines, malaria advice, and health guidance for Vietnam travellers.

    Vietnam

    Southeast Asia

    Vietnam has become one of the fastest-growing travel destinations for British visitors, offering everything from the bustling streets of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to the stunning landscapes of Ha Long Bay and the Mekong Delta. However, Vietnam presents significant health risks including mosquito-borne diseases, food and waterborne illness, and rabies. A pre-travel consultation at least 6–8 weeks before departure is strongly recommended.

    Recommended Vaccines for Vietnam

    Hepatitis A

    Recommended for all travellers. High risk through contaminated food and water.

    Typhoid

    Strongly recommended, especially with Vietnam's vibrant street food culture.

    Hepatitis B

    Recommended for longer stays, frequent travellers, or potential medical treatment.

    Japanese Encephalitis

    Recommended for rural areas, especially rice-growing regions and during monsoon season.

    Rabies

    Strongly recommended — stray dogs are widespread and post-exposure treatment may be hard to access.

    Cholera

    Consider for aid workers or travel to areas with poor sanitation during outbreaks.

    DTP Booster

    Ensure routine diphtheria, tetanus and polio vaccinations are current.

    MMR

    Ensure you've had two doses — measles outbreaks occur in Vietnam.

    Malaria Risk in Vietnam

    Malaria risk in Vietnam varies by region. Major cities (Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang) and popular coastal resorts are generally low risk. However, significant malaria risk exists in rural, highland, and forested border areas, particularly in the central highlands and provinces bordering Cambodia and Laos. Antimalarial tablets are recommended for these areas. Bite prevention measures are essential throughout Vietnam.

    Key Health Risks

    • Dengue fever — widespread throughout Vietnam, including urban areas. Peak during rainy season (May–November).
    • Japanese Encephalitis — risk in rural rice-growing areas, especially during and after monsoon season.
    • Rabies — stray dogs are very common. Vietnam has one of the highest rabies death rates in Asia.
    • Travellers' diarrhoea — very common. Street food is a highlight but carries risk.
    • Road traffic accidents — chaotic traffic, especially involving motorbikes. Always wear a helmet.
    • Air pollution — major cities have significant pollution that can affect respiratory health.

    Travel Health Tips for Vietnam

    1Book vaccinations at least 6–8 weeks before departure — Japanese Encephalitis requires multiple doses.
    2Use DEET-based insect repellent and wear long sleeves at dawn and dusk to prevent mosquito bites.
    3Be cautious with street food — choose busy stalls where food is cooked fresh and served hot.
    4Avoid contact with stray dogs and monkeys — rabies is a serious risk in Vietnam.
    5Drink only bottled or boiled water. Avoid ice unless from a reputable source.
    6Carry comprehensive travel insurance and know the location of your nearest hospital.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What vaccines do I need for Vietnam?+
    We recommend Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and ensuring routine vaccines (DTP, MMR) are up to date. Japanese Encephalitis and Rabies are strongly recommended. Hepatitis B may also be advised. Book a consultation for personalised advice.
    Do I need malaria tablets for Vietnam?+
    It depends on your itinerary. Major cities and coastal areas are low risk, but antimalarials are recommended for rural, highland, and border areas. Our pharmacist will assess your specific travel plans.
    Is street food safe in Vietnam?+
    Vietnam's street food is a major attraction. Choose busy stalls where food is freshly prepared, avoid raw/undercooked items, and ensure Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccinations are up to date.
    Is rabies a serious risk in Vietnam?+
    Yes — Vietnam has one of the highest rabies death rates in Southeast Asia. Stray dogs are extremely common. Pre-exposure rabies vaccination is strongly recommended, especially for longer stays.
    How far in advance should I get vaccinated for Vietnam?+
    Ideally 6–8 weeks before travel. Japanese Encephalitis requires two doses over 4 weeks. Last-minute travellers can still benefit from same-day Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccines.

    Travelling to Vietnam?

    Book a travel health consultation and get all the vaccinations and advice you need before you go.