Southeast Asia
🇻🇳 Vaccines for Vietnam
Entry requirements & recommendations for travel to Vietnam
Vietnam requires no specific travel vaccines for entry from most countries, though Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Hepatitis B, Japanese Encephalitis, and Rabies are all commonly recommended. Malaria risk exists in southern and central highland border areas but not in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. Rabies is a genuine consideration given dog populations throughout the country. Vietnam's food is a major draw for many visitors — from Hanoi's street food culture to Ho Chi Minh City's diverse scene — and is generally safe when following sensible precautions (busy stalls, freshly cooked food), which is part of why Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccination is recommended as a safety margin rather than a sign that the food itself is dangerous. Healthcare in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City is reasonable, with good private options.
Medical disclaimer: This is general information only — not personal medical advice. Requirements and risks change. Always consult a qualified travel health clinic before departure.
Required for entry
No vaccines required for entry to this destination.
Recommended by WHO & CDC
Hepatitis A
Food and water contamination — common risk for travellers.
💉 2 doses
📅 Book at least 4 weeks before travel
⚡ Effective: 2 weeks after 1st dose. Full protection after 2nd dose (6–12 months later).
🛡 Protects for: 1st dose ~1 yr. 2nd dose: lifetime.
Recommended
Typhoid
Contaminated food and water, especially street food.
💉 1 dose
📅 Book at least 3 weeks before travel
⚡ Effective: 2 weeks after vaccination.
🛡 Protects for: 3–5 years. Booster recommended if re-exposure.
Recommended
Hepatitis B
Blood and sexual contact.
💉 3 doses
📅 Book at least 26 weeks before travel
⚡ Effective: After full 3-dose course. Accelerated 3-week schedule available — ask your clinic.
🛡 Protects for: Lifetime after full course.
Recommended
Japanese Encephalitis
Risk in rural areas especially Red River and Mekong deltas during monsoon.
💉 2 doses
📅 Book at least 7 weeks before travel
⚡ Effective: After 2nd dose (28 days after the 1st).
🛡 Protects for: Booster after 1 year if ongoing exposure.
Recommended
Rabies
Dog and animal bites risk.
💉 3 doses
📅 Book at least 5 weeks before travel
⚡ Effective: After 3rd dose. 2nd dose 7 days after 1st, 3rd dose 21 days after 1st.
🛡 Protects for: Pre-exposure reduces post-bite treatment needed. Boosters based on blood tests.
Recommended
Disease risks
- ⚠Malaria (southern and central highlands border areas — not Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi)
- ⚠Dengue (endemic)
- ⚠Japanese Encephalitis (rural/delta areas)
- ⚠Avian Influenza (rare)
Notes: Hepatitis A and Typhoid strongly recommended. No malaria risk in major cities or coastal tourist areas. Malaria prophylaxis only for rural highland/border areas. Japanese Encephalitis for extended rural travel.
Approximate cost per person
Required vaccines
—
None required for entry
Recommended vaccines
~€975
(~$1063)
per person · full courses
Hepatitis A (2 doses)€140 ($152)
Typhoid (1 dose)€45 ($49)
Hepatitis B (3 doses)€189 ($207)
Japanese Encephalitis (2 doses)€264 ($288)
Rabies (3 doses)€273 ($297)
Malaria tablets (4 weeks) (1 dose)€64 ($70)
💡 Approximate figures based on private European travel clinic rates (April 2026). Actual costs vary by clinic and country. Not all recommended vaccines will apply to every trip — discuss your specific itinerary with a travel health clinic.