Travel Vaccinations for Vietnam: A Practical Guide

Do I need travel vaccinations for Vietnam?

Many travellers to Vietnam should consider travel vaccinations before departure.

The recommendations depend on your destination, length of stay, activities, accommodation, medical history and previous vaccinations.

• Hepatitis A
• Typhoid
• Tetanus, Diphtheria and Polio
• Hepatitis B for some travellers

Rabies in Vietnam

Rabies is still present in Vietnam, and vaccination may be discussed for travellers who are more likely to come into contact with animals or may have limited access to urgent medical care.

Travellers should avoid touching dogs, cats, monkeys and other animals, even if they appear friendly.

• Backpacking or long-stay travel
• Cycling or hiking in rural areas
• Volunteering overseas
• Working with animals
• Travelling to remote areas

Japanese Encephalitis

Japanese Encephalitis may be considered for some travellers to Vietnam, particularly those spending longer periods in rural areas or travelling during seasons when mosquito exposure is higher.

It is more likely to be discussed for travellers staying near rice fields, farms or rural communities.

Do I need malaria tablets for Vietnam?

Some parts of Vietnam carry a malaria risk, although risk varies depending on the exact area visited.

During your consultation, we will assess your route, provinces visited and onward travel to advise whether malaria tablets may be appropriate.

• Your full itinerary
• Rural or forested areas
• Border regions
• Length of stay
• Any onward travel in Southeast Asia

Mosquito bite prevention

Mosquito bite prevention is important throughout Vietnam, even where malaria tablets are not required.

Mosquitoes can spread illnesses such as dengue fever, so reducing bites should be part of your travel plan.

• Use insect repellent containing DEET
• Wear long sleeves and trousers where practical
• Sleep in screened or air-conditioned rooms
• Use mosquito nets where recommended
• Seek medical advice if you develop fever during or after travel

Food and water precautions

Food and water precautions are important in Vietnam, particularly when eating street food or travelling outside major tourist areas.

Simple steps can reduce the risk of travellers' diarrhoea and other food or water-borne illnesses.

• Drink bottled, sealed or treated water
• Avoid ice if you are unsure how it was made
• Choose freshly cooked food served hot
• Wash or peel fruit yourself
• Wash hands regularly or use hand sanitiser

Adventure travel in Vietnam

Vietnam is popular for adventure travel, including the Ha Giang Loop, Sapa trekking, caves, motorbike travel and island hopping.

If your trip includes remote travel, motorbike routes or rural stays, your vaccination and travel health advice may be different from a short city break.

When should I book?

Ideally, book your travel consultation around 6-8 weeks before departure. This gives enough time for vaccines to work and for any multi-dose courses to be planned.

If you are travelling sooner, we can often still help with last-minute advice, so contact us as early as possible.

Travel vaccinations for Vietnam in Swindon

At Swindon Health Hub, our travel clinic can review your Vietnam itinerary, previous vaccinations, medical history and planned activities before recommending a personalised plan.

Your consultation can include vaccination advice, malaria guidance, rabies risk advice, Japanese Encephalitis considerations and practical travel health tips.