Which Vaccines for Vietnam Do You Need?
With its stunning landscapes, rich culture and delicious street food, Vietnam is one of Southeast Asia’s most popular travel destinations. From the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City to the serene waters of Ha Long Bay, there’s plenty to explore — but before you head off, it’s important to think about your health.
Certain infectious diseases are still present in Vietnam, and getting the right vaccinations before you travel is a simple way to protect yourself. In this guide, we’ll explain which vaccines for Vietnam are recommended, who needs them, and how Cheltenham Travel Clinic can help you prepare for your trip.
Why Do You Need Vaccines for Vietnam?
While Vietnam is a welcoming and vibrant country, it has different health risks compared to the UK. Diseases like hepatitis A, typhoid and Japanese encephalitis can spread through contaminated food, insect bites or poor sanitation — and some don’t show symptoms straight away.
Vaccinations can reduce your risk of getting seriously ill abroad, especially if you’ll be:
- Travelling to rural areas
- Eating street food or drinking untreated water
- Backpacking or staying long-term
- Visiting friends and relatives in local communities
- Volunteering or working in healthcare or agriculture
Even if you’re only going for a short holiday, it’s worth checking what protection you need.
Recommended Vaccines for Vietnam
Here are the key vaccines UK travellers should consider before visiting Vietnam:
1. Hepatitis A
How it spreads: Contaminated food and water
Why it matters: This liver infection is common in countries with limited sanitation. Even a salad washed in tap water can cause it.
Recommended for: All travellers, especially those eating local or uncooked food
Course: Single dose + optional booster (for 25-year protection)
2. Typhoid
How it spreads: Contaminated food, drinks or water
Why it matters: Typhoid can cause fever, weakness and stomach pain. It’s common in areas with poor hygiene.
Recommended for: Most travellers, especially in rural or low-income regions
Course: One injection (lasts three years)
3. Tetanus, Diphtheria and Polio (DTP)
How it spreads: Through cuts, wounds or respiratory droplets
Why it matters: These serious infections are rare in the UK but still present in parts of Asia.
Recommended for: All travellers, if last booster was over 10 years ago
Course: Booster injection
4. Hepatitis B
How it spreads: Blood and bodily fluids
Why it matters: Higher rates in Vietnam make this a risk for medical treatment abroad, tattoos, piercings or unprotected sex.
Recommended for: Long stays, medical work, or higher-risk activities
Course: Multiple doses over a month (faster options available)
5. Rabies
How it spreads: Bites or scratches from infected animals
Why it matters: Dogs, monkeys and bats can carry rabies in Vietnam. Immediate treatment is crucial if exposed.
Recommended for: Long stays, rural travel, caving or working with animals
Course: Three-dose pre-exposure vaccine
6. Japanese Encephalitis
How it spreads: Mosquito bites
Why it matters: This viral brain infection is more common in rural and farming regions during monsoon season.
Recommended for: Long trips, especially in the countryside or wet season
Course: Two doses (start at least 6 weeks before travel)
Optional or Country-Specific Considerations
While less common, some travellers may also need:
- Cholera vaccine – for aid workers or those visiting areas with outbreaks
- MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) – if you missed childhood vaccinations
- Flu jab – if travelling during Vietnam’s flu season or winter months
Your risk depends on where you’re going, how long you’re staying, and what you’ll be doing. We can guide you through this during your consultation.
When Should You Get Vaccinated?
It’s best to book your travel vaccination appointment at least 6 to 8 weeks before your departure date. This gives your body time to build immunity, especially if you need multiple doses (e.g. hepatitis B or Japanese encephalitis).
If you’re travelling at short notice, don’t panic — many vaccines can still offer protection even if given closer to your travel date.
Where Can You Get Vaccines for Vietnam?
At Cheltenham Travel Clinic, we offer expert travel health advice and a full range of vaccines for Vietnam and other destinations. When you book a consultation, we will:
- Review your travel itinerary and duration
- Check your vaccination history
- Recommend the right vaccines for your trip
- Provide same-day vaccinations where possible
- Offer advice on food, water and insect bite protection
We make it easy to travel with confidence — whether you’re going for a week or several months.
Book Your Travel Vaccines Today
Don’t let illness spoil your adventure. Getting the right vaccines for Vietnam is a simple step that can protect you from serious infections — and give you peace of mind while exploring this beautiful country.
Get in touch with our team at Cheltenham Travel Clinic today where we can provide expert advice tailored to your journey.
