Planning a trip to Vietnam? Whether you’re exploring Hanoi’s old streets, trekking in Sapa, or relaxing on Phu Quoc’s beaches, staying healthy and safe ensures you enjoy every moment of your adventure. This complete health and safety guide for Vietnam covers vaccinations, drinking water, mosquito precautions, food hygiene, and what to do if you need medical care during your stay.
💉 Vaccinations & Disease Prevention
Before traveling to Vietnam, check with your doctor or a travel health clinic about recommended vaccinations. While no vaccines are mandatory for entry (except in special cases), the following are strongly advised:
- DTP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Polio)
- Hepatitis A – for all travelers
- Typhoid – for stays longer than two weeks or rural travel
- Measles (MMR) – ensure you’re up to date, especially if born after 1964
Yellow Fever: A vaccination certificate is required only if you’re arriving from or transiting through a country with a yellow fever risk. Children under 1 year are exempt.
🦟 Mosquito Protection & Malaria
Vietnam has mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever and, in some regions, malaria. Dengue is more common in cities and lowlands, while malaria is found mainly in forested or rural areas near the borders with Cambodia and Laos.
- Use DEET-based insect repellent (at least 30%)
- Wear light-colored, long-sleeved clothing in the evening
- Sleep under a mosquito net in rural areas
- Consult your doctor about anti-malarial medication if visiting remote regions
If you develop fever or flu-like symptoms during or after your trip, seek medical attention immediately.
🚰 Food & Drinking Water Safety
Vietnam’s cuisine is a highlight of any trip, but travelers should take basic precautions to avoid stomach issues:
Water
- Tap water is not safe to drink. Always use bottled or boiled water for drinking, brushing teeth, or making ice.
- Check that bottled water is properly sealed before purchase.
Food
- Eat freshly cooked food and avoid anything raw that may have been washed in tap water.
- Choose busy local eateries with high turnover—fresh food means safer food!
- Peel your own fruit and avoid undercooked meat or seafood.
Street food is a must-try in Vietnam, but always pick stalls where you can see food being cooked and hygiene looks good.
🐾 Animals & Rabies Awareness
Stray animals, especially dogs and cats, are common in Vietnam. Rabies is present in the country, so:
- Avoid touching or feeding stray animals.
- If bitten or scratched, wash the wound with soap and water immediately and seek medical help for post-exposure vaccination.
- Consider a pre-exposure rabies vaccination if traveling to remote areas.
🏥 Medical Care & Emergency Information
Medical care in Vietnam varies depending on location. Major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City have international hospitals and clinics with English-speaking doctors, while facilities in rural areas are limited.
- Always have comprehensive travel insurance that covers emergency evacuation or repatriation.
- Be prepared to pay medical fees upfront; keep all receipts for insurance claims.
- In serious cases, contact your travel insurance provider immediately for guidance and hospital arrangements.
Emergency Numbers in Vietnam
- Police: 113
- Ambulance: 115
- Fire: 114
Embassies and consulates in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City can also assist foreign travelers in case of medical or legal emergencies.
💊 Medicines & Travel Pharmacy
Pharmacies in Vietnam’s major cities are well stocked, but in smaller towns, supplies can be limited or unreliable. Always travel with your own basic medical kit and any prescription medicines you regularly use.
Recommended Travel Pharmacy Checklist
- Antibacterial ointment (e.g., mupirocin)
- Antihistamines (for allergies or insect bites)
- Painkillers (paracetamol or ibuprofen)
- Antiseptic wipes or iodine solution
- Insect repellent (DEET-based)
- Anti-diarrheal medication (loperamide)
- Plasters, bandages, tweezers, scissors
- Thermometer
- Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
If you take medication that falls under controlled substances (such as certain sleeping pills or strong painkillers), carry them in original packaging with a doctor’s note in English. Always request this at least four weeks before departure.
☀️ Sun & Skin Care Tips
Vietnam’s tropical climate means strong sun, high humidity, and frequent outdoor exposure. Protect your skin and stay comfortable with these simple tips:
- Apply sunscreen regularly (SPF 30 or higher).
- Wear a hat, sunglasses, and light clothing to prevent sunburn and heatstroke.
- Wash and disinfect small cuts to prevent infection.
- Avoid wearing strong perfumes or dark clothes—they attract mosquitoes.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of bottled water.
🌿 Hygiene & General Health Tips
- Wash or sanitize your hands frequently.
- Avoid biting your nails or touching your face after handling money or street food.
- Carry wet wipes or hand sanitizer for convenience.
- Be cautious with ice cubes in rural or roadside cafés.
- Listen to your body—rest if you feel tired, especially in humid conditions.
✅ Quick Health & Safety Summary for Vietnam
| Topic | Key Tips |
|---|---|
| Vaccinations | Recommended: DTP, Hepatitis A, Typhoid |
| Water | Drink only bottled or boiled water |
| Mosquitoes | Use DEET repellent, wear long sleeves |
| Food | Eat fresh, cooked meals at clean venues |
| Medical Care | Good in cities, limited in rural areas |
| Insurance | Get travel insurance with medical coverage |
🧳 Final Thoughts
Vietnam is a safe and welcoming destination for international travelers. With a few smart precautions and the right preparation, you can enjoy its breathtaking landscapes, flavorful cuisine, and warm hospitality with complete peace of mind.
Before your trip, double-check vaccination requirements, pack a small travel health kit, and don’t forget sunscreen and mosquito repellent. By following these health and safety tips, you’ll be ready for an unforgettable—and worry-free—journey through Vietnam.
