Travel health tips for Vietnam

You’re probably already dreaming of motorbike rides through mountain passes, slurping phở on tiny plastic stools, and cruising Ha Long Bay. But before you take off, it’s worth giving your health some thought. Vietnam’s tropical climate, buzzing street food scene, and chaotic cities can be a sensory overload and a shock to the system if you’re not ready. Here are some practical Vietnam travel health tips to help you stay on your feet (and out of the pharmacy) while you explore.

Essential vaccines for traveling to Vietnam

You don’t need any vaccines to get into Vietnam, unless you’re coming from a country where yellow fever is present. In that case, travelers aged 1 and up need proof of vaccination, even if you just transited through an airport for more than 12 hours.

Which vaccines do you need?

Aim to get your shots 4 to 6 weeks before you go. That gives you time to build immunity and to finish multi-dose ones like Japanese Encephalitis if needed.

Vaccines to consider:

• Hepatitis A: Spread through contaminated food or water. If you're sampling cơm tấm or slurping bún bò Hue from a street vendor, this one's smart to have.
• Typhoid: Makes sense if you're eating street food, heading to smaller towns like Kon Tum, or spending time in rural areas where sanitation can be hit or miss.
• MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella): Cases still occur across Vietnam. If you’re not sure your childhood vaccines are up to date, get a booster.
• Tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis: Cuts from scooter accidents or jungle hikes in places like Phong Nha can get infected fast. This combo shot is a must.

Also worth considering:

• Rabies: Vietnam sees rabies cases every year, especially in rural provinces and places with a lot of stray dogs, like the outskirts of Da Lat or small villages in the north. Monkeys in tourist areas like Tam Dao or around temples can also be aggressive.
• Japanese Encephalitis: Spread by mosquitoes in rural areas, especially during the monsoon (May to October). Get vaccinated if you're staying more than a few weeks or visiting regions like the Mekong Delta, the Red River Delta, or rice fields near Ninh Bình.

Pre-travel health checklist

Before you dive into bowls of phở and hop on a sleeper train across the country, it’s worth ticking off a few health essentials. From sun to scooters, Vietnam throws a lot at you, so prep now and avoid dealing with it mid-trip. Here’s what to pack and what to think about before flying to Vietnam. (For general essentials, check out our Vietnam travel tips.)

Packing for a healthy trip

Here’s a quick list of what’s smart to bring, especially if you’re heading into the mountains, jungle, or countryside:

• Anti-diarrheal meds: Loperamide (Imodium) works well if street food or sketchy water sets you off.
• Oral rehydration salts: It’s easy to get dehydrated in the heat, or if your stomach turns on you.
• Antihistamines: Vietnam has plenty of bugs and tropical plants. Bring tablets or cream for allergic reactions or itchy bites.
• Motion sickness tablets: Vietnam’s roads are winding, and boat rides in places like Ha Long Bay can get choppy.
• Painkillers: Bring what you usually take, ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Local brands aren’t always the same strength.
• Antibiotic ointment: Small cuts can get infected fast, especially in the humid south.
• Insect repellent: Get one with at least 20% DEET or a picaridin-based spray. Essential in places like the Mekong Delta.
• Sunscreen: SPF 50 or higher. Vietnamese sun + scooter = recipe for sunburn.
• Prescription meds: Bring enough for your entire trip, plus a few days extra. Keep it in your carry-on just in case your bag disappears.

Pre-travel health check

Get a quick medical and dental check-up before you go, especially if you’ve been putting things off. In Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang, healthcare is decent and easy to find. But in smaller towns like Ha Giang or along the Ho Chi Minh Trail, clinics can be few and far between.

If you’re heading to more remote spots, mountain villages in the north, island stays in Phu Quoc, jungle trekking in Cat Tien, check how far you'll be from medical help. Private hospitals are generally more reliable than public ones, and not all clinics will have English-speaking staff.

Planning to travel during Tết (Vietnamese Lunar New Year)? Be aware: lots of clinics and pharmacies shut or reduce hours. Emergency rooms stay open, but don’t count on fast service during the holiday rush.

How to avoid mosquito-borne illnesses

If you're researching Vietnam travel health tips, mosquito protection should be near the top of your list. Dengue, malaria, Japanese encephalitis, and even the occasional Zika case are all mosquito-borne diseases found in Vietnam. The good news? A few simple steps can help you stay bite-free.

How to avoid mosquito bites

• Use insect repellent with 20-30% DEET: Reapply it throughout the day, especially on exposed skin like ankles, arms, and neck.
• Wear light, long-sleeved clothing: Especially at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active. Loose fabrics also help you stay cool in the heat.
• Stay in air-conditioned rooms: If that’s not an option, make sure windows and doors have screens and are actually shut.
• Check your room for mosquitoes: Look under the bed, behind curtains, and in bathroom corners. They like dark, damp spots.
• Use permethrin-treated gear if you’re trekking: Essential if you’re heading into national parks, jungles, or remote areas.
• Avoid peak mosquito season: Vietnam’s rainy season (May to October) sees a spike in mosquito activity, especially in the south.

Dengue fever

Dengue fever in Vietnam is a year-round risk, with outbreaks peaking during the rainy season. It’s most common in southern Vietnam, but even urban areas like Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Da Nang report regular cases.

Dengue is spread by Aedes mosquitoes, which bite during the day, especially in the early morning and late afternoon. Symptoms mimic the flu: fever, headache, eye pain, joint pain, and sometimes a rash. There's no treatment, so prevention is key: wear repellent and cover your skin.

Malaria

Malaria in Vietnam isn’t widespread, but there is a low risk in some rural and forested areas, especially along the borders with Laos and Cambodia.

You’re more likely to need malaria precautions if you plan to visit:

• Forest areas in Kon Tum, Gia Lai, or Quảng Nam
• Border regions in the Central Highlands
• Jungle areas in the Mekong Delta or near Cambodia

For most tourists sticking to major cities, beach towns, and popular routes, malaria pills aren’t necessary. But if you're trekking or spending nights in remote areas, talk to a travel clinic.

Japanese Encephalitis

Japanese Encephalitis (JE) is rare, but it exists in Vietnam, especially in rural areas with rice fields and pigs. It's spread by night-biting Culex mosquitoes, particularly during Vietnam’s monsoon season.

The JE vaccine is worth considering if:

• You’re staying in the countryside for over a month
• You’re traveling during the wet season (May to October)
• You’ll be near rice paddies or pig farms in areas like Ninh Bình or the Red River, and the Mekong Delta

Zika virus

There have been isolated Zika cases in Vietnam, mostly in southern regions and Ho Chi Minh City. The virus isn’t actively spreading now, but pregnant travelers, or anyone planning a pregnancy, should take extra care.

Zika is transmitted by the same daytime-biting mosquitoes that spread dengue. Most people don’t have symptoms or only get a mild fever, rash, or joint pain. But the risk to unborn babies is serious, so check health advisories before you go.

Staying healthy in Vietnam

Vietnam's chaotic cities, tropical climate, and incredible street food are all part of the appeal, but they can also catch you off guard if you’re not prepared. A few smart Vietnam travel health tips can help you skip the doctor’s office and just enjoy the ride.

Food and water safety in Vietnam

Tap water in Vietnam isn't safe to drink, even in big cities. Stick to sealed bottled water (check the cap) or boiled water if you’re staying somewhere more remote. That goes for brushing your teeth, too, especially outside major tourist hotels.

Street food in Vietnam is a highlight, but use common sense. Look for busy stalls with locals; turnover is your best hygiene check. Try the phở, bánh xèo, or bún chả, but steer clear of anything that’s been sitting out or looks undercooked.

When it comes to fruit, go for things you can peel yourself like mango, lychee, or bananas. Avoid pre-cut fruit from roadside stands unless you're sure it’s been prepped with clean water.

Dealing with heat and humidity in Vietnam

Vietnam is hot and humid most of the year, especially in the south. Average daytime temps hit 86°F (30°C), and humidity regularly climbs past 75%. Cities like Hue and Hoi An feel steamy, while Saigon can be brutal from May to August.

Ease into your trip, don’t jump straight into long hikes or multi-day bike rides. Wear lightweight, loose clothing, reapply SPF 50+ sunscreen, and don’t skip the hat. You’ll need to drink at least 3 liters of water a day, more if you're cycling, trekking, or riding motorbikes in the heat. Keep electrolyte tabs on hand if you're sweating nonstop.

Monkey safety and animal encounters

You’re likely to spot macaques at places like Ba Na Hills, Cúc Phương National Park, or temple sites like Yen Tu. They look cute, but they can be aggressive, especially if you're holding food or a phone.

• Don’t feed them.
• Don’t smile or stare (they read it as aggression).
• Hang onto your bag, they know how to unzip zippers.

If you're trekking in the north or central highlands, you might see monkeys, civets, or even snakes. Most will leave you alone, but if you're bitten or scratched, wash the area with soap and water right away and get checked out. Rabies is present in Vietnam, and bites from monkeys or stray dogs should never be ignored.

Why travel insurance is a must

Vietnam is a fantastic place to travel, but things don’t always go according to plan, especially when you mix scooters, spicy street food, jungle hikes, and tropical weather. Having travel insurance isn’t just a good idea, it’s a smart, practical safety net.

Healthcare in Vietnam: public vs private

Vietnam has a mix of public hospitals and private clinics, but the quality varies widely.

• Public hospitals are affordable but often crowded, with limited English spoken and long wait times.
• Private hospitals in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang are much more accessible to travelers. You’ll find English-speaking staff, modern equipment, and faster service, but it’ll cost you.

In rural areas you may only find basic clinics with limited resources. If something serious happens, you could be looking at a long journey to get proper care or an expensive medical evacuation.

What healthcare can cost in Vietnam (if you’re uninsured)

Here’s what you might be paying out-of-pocket without insurance:

• Doctor’s consultation: 300,000-1.5 million VND ($12-$60)
• Emergency room visit (private): 2-5 million VND ($80-$200)
• Private hospital stay: 1-5 million VND per night ($40-$200)
• Blood tests or X-rays: 1-3 million VND ($40-$120)
• MRI or CT scan: 5-15 million VND ($200-$600)
• Appendix surgery: 25-60 million VND ($1,000-$2,400)
• Dengue fever treatment: 20-40 million VND ($800-$1,600)
• Evacuation from rural area to major city: 100-300 million VND ($4,000-$12,000)
• Medical evacuation home: 500 million VND and up ($20,000+)

Even common travel problems, like a motorbike crash, a severe stomach bug, or dengue, can lead to huge bills.

What to look for in a Vietnam travel insurance policy

Not all plans cover what you’ll need. Here’s what to double-check:

• Medical coverage: At least $100,000 USD for illness, injury, and hospital stays.
• Emergency evacuation: Essential if you’re heading into remote provinces or plan to ride a motorbike.
• Adventure activities: Some of the best things to do in Vietnam, like caving in Phong Nha, trekking in Sapa, or motorbiking the Ha Giang loop, aren’t always covered. Make sure they are.
• Trip delays and cancellations: Vietnam’s weather and transport can be unpredictable.
• Theft and lost belongings: Phones, cameras, and laptops disappear more often than you’d think.
• 24/7 emergency support: Ideally with English-speaking reps who understand Vietnam’s healthcare system.

Trusted insurance providers for Vietnam

Here are a few popular options travelers use in Vietnam:

• World Nomads: Great for flexible trips. Covers over 150 adventure activities and lets you buy or extend on the road.
• Allianz Travel Insurance: Offers strong emergency coverage and solid support, even on basic plans.
• SafetyWing: Affordable for longer stays and digital nomads. Includes some COVID-related coverage and flexible plans.
• IMG Global: Focused on international medical coverage and evacuation, though reviews on claims speed are mixed.

Emergency help: what to do if you get sick

Even with good planning, things can go wrong. Motorbike spills, food poisoning, and heat exhaustion, Vietnam can throw you a few curveballs. Here’s what to do if you need medical help fast.

Emergency contacts in Vietnam

Save these numbers in your phone before you arrive:

• Emergency services: 115 (ambulance), 113 (police), 114 (fire)
• Vietnam Tourism Hotline: 84-24-3944-6600 (general support for travelers, English available)
• Your embassy or consulate: Make a note of local contact details, they can help in serious cases

Going to the hospital

Vietnam’s medical system varies a lot. In major cities you'll find good-quality private hospitals and international clinics with English-speaking staff and modern facilities. In smaller towns or rural areas, you may only find public hospitals or basic clinics with limited resources and little English.

Here’s what to do if you need medical care:

• Ask your hotel or hostel staff for the nearest reputable clinic or hospital.
• Bring your passport and travel insurance info; they’ll usually ask for this when you check in.
• Ask for an English-speaking doctor, especially in public hospitals where language can be a barrier.
• Pay up front; most places require it, even in emergencies.
• Keep all receipts, you’ll need them for any insurance claims later.

Recommended hospitals and clinics in Vietnam

If you’re in a major city, head to one of these trusted facilities that are commonly used by international travelers:

• Hanoi:
  • Vinmec International Hospital – Modern facilities, English-speaking staff, central location.
  • French Hospital Hanoi (HFH) – Reliable, with expat doctors and high standards.
• Ho Chi Minh City:
  • FV Hospital (District 7) – One of the top private hospitals in the country, popular with expats.
  • Family Medical Practice HCMC – 24/7 care, multilingual doctors, good for minor emergencies.
• Da Nang:
  • Hoan My Da Nang Hospital – Clean, efficient, with English-speaking services.
  • Family Medical Practice Da Nang – Popular among travelers, located near the city center.
• Hoi An (closest city-level facilities are in Da Nang):
  • For anything serious, go to Da Nang. Local clinics in Hoi An can handle basic care, but not emergencies.
• Hue:
  • Hue Central Hospital – A public hospital with a reputation for competence, though English may be limited.
• Nha Trang:
  • Vinmec Nha Trang – Part of the Vinmec chain, good for general care and emergencies.
• Sapa:
  • Clinics exist, but for anything more than basic treatment, you’ll need to go to Lào Cai or Hanoi.