What Vaccinations Do You Need for Traveling to Vietnam

Although there is no requirement of compulsory vaccinations to obtain a Vietnam visa, it is better to be safe than sorry. To answer the question “What vaccinations do you need for traveling to Vietnam?” here are our recommendations.

When to Take the Vaccinations

After figuring out what vaccinations do you need for traveling to Vietnam, take them, ideally, 4-6 weeks before your trip since some vaccinations need at least 4 weeks to fully work.

So What Vaccinations Do You Need for Traveling to Vietnam?

• Routine Vaccinations: measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, varicella, polio, yearly flu shot
• Hepatitis A, Typhoid: You might get it from contaminated food or water, especially if you are about to try exotic food or visit rural places.
• Hepatitis B: The transmission is similar to HIV, including sexual contact, blood, and contaminated medical equipment. If you are thinking about getting tattoos in Vietnam or dental work in Vietnam, this shot is highly advised.
• Rabies: People, especially small children, who love to be outdoors or play with animals like cats and dogs, should not skip this shot.
• Yellow Fever is compulsory if you visit an infected place and then travel to Vietnam within a six-day period.
• Japanese Encephalitis: If you plan to visit rural places in Vietnam, especially for more than 1 month, this vaccination is highly advised. 3 required shots should be taken at least 1 month before your departure day.
• Tetanus, Meningococcal disease: You should get when visiting rural areas where many causes might be available.
• Malaria: Monsoon season in Vietnam is one factor that creates an environment for mosquitoes, which may carry the malaria virus. There has not been a vaccination for this disease yet, so careful precautions should be taken, such as using bed nets and insect spray when traveling to the countryside or highlands.
• Tuberculosis: If you do not come from a country where infants get the Tuberculosis vaccination called BCG, you should visit the doctor as soon as you notice symptoms like coughing, weight loss, or a fever in the afternoon or night.

Summary of What Vaccinations Do You Need for Traveling to Vietnam

Although there is no specific regulation of what vaccinations you need for traveling to Vietnam, careful preparation is recommended.

Other helpful guides about vaccinations for Vietnam:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Tropical Medical Bureau