Vaccines and health in Vietnam: what to know
Updated 3 November 2026 · 4 min read
In short
No vaccine is compulsory for a traveller coming from Europe. According to the US CDC, be up to date on routine vaccines and hepatitis A and B; Japanese encephalitis applies to stays of a month or more, or rural areas. There is no malaria in Hanoi, Saigon, Da Nang or Nha Trang. Dengue circulates all year: protect yourself from mosquitoes.
This guide summarises public recommendations and does not replace medical advice. See a doctor or travel clinic 4 to 6 weeks before you leave.
Vaccines
| Vaccine | Who for |
|---|---|
| Routine vaccines (diphtheria, tetanus, polio, measles...) | All travellers: check they are up to date |
| Hepatitis A | Unvaccinated travellers aged 1 and over |
| Hepatitis B | Unvaccinated travellers |
| Japanese encephalitis | Stays of a month or more; discuss for rural areas, hiking or camping |
| Yellow fever | Not recommended for Vietnam |
Mosquitoes
- Malaria: no cases in the cities of Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, Hai Phong, Nha Trang and Quy Nhon. The risk concerns some rural areas: ask your doctor whether medication makes sense for your route.
- Dengue: present all year, especially in the rainy season. There is no routine vaccine for travellers: use repellent, long sleeves in the evening and a net if needed.
Day to day
- Water: drink bottled or filtered water.
- Heat: drink often and avoid the midday sun.
- Care: big cities have international clinics, which are often expensive: travel insurance is very useful.
- Motorbikes: one of the main accident risks for travellers.
See also travel insurance for Vietnam, practical info and motorbike licence in Vietnam. Source: CDC, Vietnam.
Frequently asked questions
Which vaccines do I need for Vietnam?
None is compulsory for a traveller coming from Europe. The CDC recommends routine vaccines and hepatitis A and B; Japanese encephalitis depends on length of stay and route. Ask a doctor.
Is there malaria in Vietnam?
Not in the cities of Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, Hai Phong, Nha Trang and Quy Nhon. The risk concerns some rural areas: discuss your route with your doctor.
Can you drink tap water in Vietnam?
Better to avoid it: drink bottled or filtered water.