Are you planning an incredible trip to Vietnam and suddenly feeling overwhelmed by a long list of potential travel vaccines? You are definitely not alone! Diving into planning can be exciting, but the health requirements, especially vaccines, can feel like a complex puzzle. Official sources like the CDC and WHO provide comprehensive lists – but do you really need every single shot they mention for your specific Vietnam adventure? (Spoiler: Probably not!)
If you prefer a streamlined approach to figuring out your actual vaccine needs for any country, check out my guide: Travel Vaccines by Country: How to Check What You Need (2025 Guide).
In this post, I’m going to break down the travel vaccines for Vietnam you might need, focusing on what makes sense based on where you’re going, what you’ll be doing, and how you travel. Because a luxury resort stay is very different from backpacking through rural villages! Let’s get you sorted with practical, traveler-focused advice you can actually use.
🧳 Quick Guide: Travel Vaccines for Vietnam (2025)
Planning a trip to Vietnam? Here’s what you actually need to know about vaccines—based on your travel style, not just official lists.
✅ Core Vaccines (Recommended for Most Travelers)
| Vaccine | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Hepatitis A | Contaminated food/water risk – very common |
| Typhoid | Also food/water-related – especially local eats |
| Hepatitis B | Long stays, medical exposure, or unvaccinated adults |
| Tetanus | Keep routine shots updated |
| Flu (Influenza) | Always smart when flying or in crowds |
| COVID-19 | Still recommended for protection, though not required |
🚩 Additional Vaccines (Only Some Travelers)
| Vaccine | When You Might Need It |
|---|---|
| Rabies | Rural travel, animal contact, limited clinic access |
| Japanese Encephalitis (JE) | Rural areas, rice paddies, rainy season |
| Cholera | Long-term aid workers in poor sanitation areas |
| Chikungunya | Rarely needed unless long stay + high risk (65+, chronic illness) |
Vaccines For Vietnam: Detailed Information
Hepatitis A:
(Highly Recommended) – Protects against a liver infection spread via contaminated food and water. Vietnam’s incredible street food and diverse eating environments make this a key protection for almost every traveler, regardless of where you stay.
Typhoid:
(Often Recommended) – Protects against a bacterial infection also transmitted through contaminated food and water. This is very common in areas with varying sanitation levels, making it highly relevant for Vietnam, especially if you plan on eating locally.
Tetanus (DPT/Tdap):
(Routine Maintenance) – Ensures your routine protection against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis is up-to-date. Tetanus is a risk from contaminated wounds anywhere in the world.
Rabies:
(Only for Some Travelers) – Protects against a viral disease transmitted by the bite or scratch of an infected animal. Rabies is present in Vietnam, particularly in rural areas. This is strongly considered for those spending significant time outdoors, interacting with animals, or in areas with limited access to immediate post-exposure treatment.
Japanese Encephalitis (JE):
(Only for Some Travelers, Often High-Risk) – Protects against a serious mosquito-borne viral disease found in rural agricultural areas (especially rice paddies) throughout Vietnam. Risk is highest during the rainy season (roughly May to October) but present year-round. Recommended primarily for those spending prolonged time (e.g., a month or more) or significant time outdoors/sleeping in rural areas during the transmission season.
Hepatitis B:
(Recommended for Unvaccinated Travelers) – Protects against a liver infection spread through blood and body fluids. The CDC recommends this vaccine for all unvaccinated travelers of all ages going to Vietnam. While risk exists widespread, it is particularly relevant for long-term stays, potential medical/dental exposure (like getting medical care or tattoos/piercings), or certain risk behaviors. This vaccine is often included in routine childhood immunization schedules in many countries.
Cholera:
(Risk Depending on Exposure) – Protects against a severe diarrheal illness spread through contaminated water. While not typically recommended for standard tourists staying in reputable accommodations and practicing basic hygiene, it might be considered for those working in aid settings, or staying long-term in areas with questionable sanitation.
Influenza (Seasonal Flu):
(Routine Recommendation) – Staying up-to-date with your annual flu shot is wise for any travel, as flu circulates globally and you’ll be in close contact with other travelers and locals.
COVID-19:
(Still Recommended) – While no longer required for entry, keeping current with recommended COVID-19 vaccination offers protection against severe illness, especially when traveling internationally.
Bonus: Routine Childhood Vaccines:
Ensure you’re current on standard immunizations like MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella), Varicella (Chickenpox), and Polio. Outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases can occur anywhere.
Malaria:
There is no vaccine for malaria. However, the CDC recommends that travelers heading to certain areas of Vietnam—primarily rural areas, particularly in the central highlands, southern provinces, and provinces bordering Cambodia and Laos—should consult a healthcare provider about antimalarial medication. Major cities (Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, Hue) and the Mekong Delta (excluding certain parts) generally have very low or no risk. Your provider can help assess your specific itinerary’s risk. (Source: CDC – Vietnam Travel Health)
🧭 Do You Really Need All These Travel Vaccines for Vietnam By Travel Type?
This is where we get practical. Vietnam is incredibly diverse, from modern cities to remote mountains and coastal regions. The health risks – and thus, the vaccine recommendations – change significantly based on your itinerary and travel style.
| Travel Style | Must-Have Vaccines | Consider These |
|---|---|---|
| City Tourist (Hanoi, Hoi An, HCMC) | Hep A, Typhoid, Hep B, Tetanus, Flu | Rabies/JE not typically needed |
| Backpacker | Hep A, Typhoid, Hep B, Tetanus, Flu | JE, Rabies (depends on rural time) |
| Trekking/Rural | Hep A, Typhoid, Hep B, Tetanus, Flu | JE, Rabies (more likely needed) |
| Volunteer/Long-Term | All of the above | Add Chikungunya, maybe Cholera |
Are Vaccines Mandatory to Enter Vietnam?
This is a frequent question! For most international tourists, the majority of recommended vaccines are not mandatory requirements for entry into Vietnam. They are recommended for your personal health and safety during your trip.
- COVID-19 Vaccine: As of late 2024, Vietnam no longer requires proof of COVID-19 vaccination or testing for entry.
- Yellow Fever Vaccine: This is the primary vaccine sometimes required, but only if you are arriving in Vietnam from a country with a high risk of Yellow Fever transmission (most countries in sub-Saharan Africa and parts of Central/South America). If you are coming directly from Canada, the US, Europe, or most Asian countries, you typically do NOT need a Yellow Fever vaccine for Vietnam. Always check the latest requirements based on your specific travel history.
💸 How Much Do Travel Vaccines Cost for Vietnam? (Canada + Vietnam)
Budgeting for travel vaccines is crucial, as costs can add up. Prices vary significantly depending on your location (clinic type, country) and the specific vaccine.
- In Canada: As a general estimate (prices can fluctuate):
- Hepatitis A: Approximately $80 – $120 CAD per dose (requires two doses for long-term immunity).
- Typhoid: Around $50 – $80 CAD (injection) or slightly more for oral capsules.
- Japanese Encephalitis: Can be expensive, often $300+ CAD per dose (requires two doses).
- Chikungunya: Can be expensive, $205-$250 per dose
- Rabies: Also costly, potentially $200+ CAD per dose (requires three doses pre-exposure).
- Travel clinics typically charge a consultation fee on top of vaccine costs.
- Getting Vaccines in Vietnam: Some travelers report being able to get certain vaccines, particularly Hepatitis A, for potentially less at reputable private clinics in major Vietnamese cities (e.g., potentially $30 – $60 USD, or roughly $40 – $80 CAD per dose). This might be an option for long-term stays, but it’s generally recommended to get critical multi-dose vaccines started before you travel. Always research clinic reputation and discuss with a health professional. Note: Vaccines often need time to become effective.
- Insurance Tips: Most standard Canadian travel insurance plans do not cover the cost of preventative travel vaccines. Check your employer or private health plan – some offer partial coverage for travel-related health expenses, which might include vaccines.
⏰ How Far in Advance Should You Get Your Vaccines?
Timing is key to ensure your vaccines provide maximum protection by the time you land in Vietnam.
- Best Practice: Aim for your initial travel health consultation and first vaccine doses at least 6-8 weeks before your departure date.
- Why the Lead Time?
- It takes time (usually 1-2 weeks) after getting a shot for your body to build immunity.
- Many essential travel vaccines, like Hepatitis A and Japanese Encephalitis, require multiple doses spaced out over weeks or months for complete, long-lasting protection. Starting early ensures you can get the necessary doses.
- It allows time for clinics to order specific vaccines if they aren’t routinely stocked.
- It provides a buffer if you experience any mild side effects that might require rest.
- Last-Minute Trips: Don’t skip the consultation! Even if you’re traveling soon, a travel clinic can prioritize vaccines based on your departure date and offer maximum possible protection with the time available (e.g., a single dose of Hep A provides some protection). Get advice as soon as possible.
Final Tips for Staying Healthy in Vietnam
Vaccines are a vital layer of protection, but good health practices are equally important for a safe and enjoyable trip to Vietnam.
- Food and Water Hygiene (Traveler’s Diarrhea is Common): Even with Hep A and Typhoid vaccines, caution is needed. Stick to bottled or properly purified water. Be adventurous with street food, but choose vendors who are popular, cook food fresh and hot in front of you, and have clean surfaces. Avoid uncooked foods (salads that haven’t been washed properly), unpeeled fruits, and ice made from tap water (“Boil it, cook it, peel it, or forget it” is a good rule of thumb).
- Mosquito Protection: Crucial due to Dengue, Zika, Chikungunya, and Japanese Encephalitis risk. Use repellent containing DEET, picaridin (KBR 3023), or IR3535, especially during peak mosquito hours (dusk and dawn). Cover up with long sleeves and pants when possible, particularly in rural areas or near standing water/rice paddies. Sleep under a mosquito net if staying in basic accommodation in rural areas.
- Sun Protection: Vietnam can be very hot and humid. Use high SPF sunscreen, wear a hat, and seek shade, especially during the hottest parts of the day. Stay well-hydrated.
- Traffic Safety: Be extremely cautious when crossing streets or if you choose to ride scooters/motorbikes. Traffic, especially motorbikes, can be unpredictable and chaotic. Consider travel insurance that covers scooter accidents if you plan to ride (and ensure you have the correct license!).
- Air Quality: Pollution in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City can be high. Consider wearing a mask if you have respiratory sensitivities, especially on busy streets.
- Injury Prevention: Be mindful of uneven pavements, open manholes, etc. Clean any cuts or scrapes immediately and thoroughly to prevent infection, especially if your Tetanus booster isn’t recent.
- Alcohol & Activity: Drink responsibly and be aware of your surroundings, particularly at night.
FAQ: Your Top Vietnam Travel Vaccine Questions Answered (Quickly!)
Generally, only if you plan extensive outdoor activities, close interaction with animals (especially stray dogs/cats), or spending significant time in rural areas where access to post-exposure treatment might be delayed. Most standard tourists staying in cities and popular tourist routes don’t typically need it, but discuss your specific itinerary with a travel clinic.
Yes, it’s one of the most highly recommended vaccines for Vietnam. Hepatitis A is very common and easily spread through contaminated food or water, which is a risk you’ll encounter across Vietnam, especially when enjoying local cuisine.
JE vaccine is usually recommended for travelers spending a month or more in rural areas during the transmission season (May-October), or for shorter trips involving extensive outdoor exposure (camping, trekking) in rural/agricultural areas during that season. It’s less likely to be needed for short trips focused only on major cities.
For this common itinerary focused on cities and coastal towns, the most common recommendations are Hepatitis A, Typhoid, ensuring Routine Tetanus is up-to-date, and getting your seasonal flu shot. Rabies and Japanese Encephalitis are generally not needed unless you plan specific activities taking you deep into rural areas for prolonged periods.
For most travelers, no. The Chikungunya vaccine is currently recommended by the CDC only for very specific, limited high-risk groups. This primarily includes those aged 65+ with underlying health conditions spending at least 2 cumulative weeks in mosquito areas, or those staying for 6 months or more. Most typical tourists do not need this vaccine. However, everyone should take precautions against mosquito bites to prevent Chikungunya and other mosquito-borne diseases (Dengue, JE).
Conclusion: Ensuring Your Health and Peace of Mind for Your Vietnam Trip
The specific vaccines you need for your adventure in Vietnam depend heavily on your personal itinerary, activities, and how long you plan to stay. For the most accurate and personalized advice, the best approach is to consult with a qualified travel health professional – either your doctor, pharmacist or a specialized travel clinic – ideally at least two months before your departure. They can review your travel plans, health history, and vaccination records to create a tailored health plan just for you. This ensures you have the right protections in place and feel confident and ready for a healthy and amazing journey.
By investing a little time in getting the right vaccines and preparing your health essentials, you’ll set yourself up for a smoother, safer, and more enjoyable experience in Vietnam. Don’t delay – prioritize your health today. Safe travels!
Want more? Check out:
👉 Central Vietnam Travel Guide
👉 What’s in My Southeast Asia Health Kit
👉 How to Research Travel Vaccines for Different Destinations
Disclaimer
The information provided in this post is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider or travel health professional before making any decisions regarding travel vaccines or health precautions for your trip to Vietnam. This post does not substitute for professional medical consultation.
References
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Travel Health – Vietnam. Available at: CDC Vietnam Travel Health Page.