What vaccinations do I need for Vietnam?

Vietnam does not require vaccinations for most visitors to enter. Health agencies still recommend that you are up to date with routine vaccines, and many advise hepatitis A and typhoid for most travelers. Others, such as hepatitis B, rabies and Japanese encephalitis, depend on how long you stay and what you plan to do.

Dengue is present in Vietnam, and the best protection is to avoid mosquito bites with repellent and long sleeves. Malaria risk is low in the main tourist areas, but higher in some forest and border regions, so ask a travel clinic if you plan to trek.

Visit a travel doctor 4 to 8 weeks before you fly, so there is time for multi-dose vaccines. The travel health pages of your own country, such as the CDC for US travelers or the NHS for UK travelers, list the current advice.

Take care with food and water. Drink bottled water and eat at busy places. Read our Vietnam travel guide for more planning help.