Travel Vaccinations for Vietnam

Vietnam, in Southeast Asia, is bordered by China, Laos and Cambodia. The country of Vietnam is long and thin with two major cities at either end, forming a natural itinerary for anyone who wants to explore the country as a whole. Although the war is still a significant part of the country’s identity, there’s much more to Vietnam these days; it’s becoming a popular tourist destination, ranked among the top travel destinations by TripAdvisor.

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Travel Health Information

Highly recommended
vaccinations for travelling here

Diphtheria Tetanus Polio (DTP) Vaccination Hepatitis A Vaccination Typhoid Vaccination

Advisory
vaccinations for travelling here

Hepatitis B Vaccination Rabies Vaccination Japanese Encephalitis Vaccination Dengue Fever Vaccination Chikungunya Vaccination

The majority of visits to Vietnam are trouble-free. However, as with travelling to any country, you should be aware of any health risks and take sensible precautions to ensure a safe trip. Crime rates in Vietnam are relatively low, but inevitably in busy, crowded streets, there have been incidents of pickpockets and bag snatching. Be wary of this petty crime and always keep a tight hold on your possessions and keep your wits about you.

You are required by law to carry photo ID with you, although a photocopy of your passport and visa is fine.

The terrain in areas of rural Vietnam can be difficult, so if you’re exploring or taking part in adventure sports, it’s best to go with an experienced guide. Some areas are restricted for travel, particularly near military bases and close to the border; meaning you may need permission to visit. Whether you’re in a busy town, village or a more remote area, the roads can be treacherous due to poor driving standards. Motorbikes are a particularly dangerous way to travel, so ensure you are competent and confident before hiring one.

Healthcare facilities in Vietnamese cities are of a reasonable standard. However, for major injuries or serious illness, you may need to seek treatment in a neighbouring country – ensure that your travel insurance covers you for this. The rainy season in Vietnam sees an increase in mosquitoes. Mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever and the Zika virus are present, use 50% DEET insect repellant over your sunscreen during the day to prevent mosquito bites. It is a Japanese encephalitis endemic area, discuss the option of vaccination with a travel clinic before you travel. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, it’s not advisable to visit Vietnam.

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Destination Information for Vietnam

For an unspoilt view of Vietnam, head to the countryside for beaches, national parks, and ancient ruins. If you’d like to immerse yourself in the country’s true beauty and culture, then take a boat trip to the scenic islands or hire a motorcycle and explore the deeper, less travelled areas of Vietnam. A visit to the capital, Hanoi, in the North of Vietnam, is an exceptional experience. Motorbikes and scooters fill the crowded streets, and here you can experience the wonders of true Vietnamese culture close up. You can wander around the street markets, sample traditional cuisine and wonder at the many gloriously constructed temples.

In the South, Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is the largest city and the main economic centre. Here you can find everything from restaurants and hotels offering the height of luxury to basic guesthouses and street food. Ancient temples and winding alleyways are set alongside ultra-contemporary skyscrapers and designer malls.

When you’re trekking through the rice paddies of Vietnam or relaxing on the beach, you need to make sure you have the correct travel vaccinations. The hepatitis A, typhoid and the diphtheria, tetanus and polio vaccines are all recommended before setting off, but we would also recommend Rabies and Japanese encephalitis and possibly hep B depending upon the risks. Visit a travel clinic for a consultation 6-8 weeks before you leave.

Infections and Outbreaks frequently change from country to country and by attending our clinics you will be given the most up to date clinical and safety advice from our team of specialists. Our advice to you often includes aspects such as:

Food and water hygiene
Insect and animal bite avoidances
Personal safety
Sexually transmitted infections
Sun protection
Altitude sickness

Discovering

Must See Highlights of Vietnam

Ha Long Bay

This UNESCO World heritage site contains thousands of limestone islands and islets of various shapes and sizes. It is one of the wonders of south east asia. Its waters are home to rich diverse ecosystems.

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

The Mausoleum belongs to one of Vietnam’s most iconic leaders, known to the people as ‘Uncle Ho’, who is preserved at the site in a glass case.

Imperial Citadel of Thang Long

Located in the heart of Vietnam is its most important Citadel dating from the 11th century Ly Dynasty. It was location of centralised political dominance for over 1300 years and was the capital of Vietnam for 800 years.

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

This UNESCO World heritage site is found in the north-central part of Vietnam. It was built to provide protection to largest karst regions which has over 300 caves and grottoes and to protect the limestone forests.