Health
Mosquitoes
When outside, wear long sleeves and long pants after dusk. Repellents are available locally and mosquito nets should be used at night if mosquitoes are present.

Rabies
Beware of dogs, cats and monkeys; they might bite. If bitten, consult a physician and try to locate the owner of the animal so it can be tested. Post exposure vaccines are available at our clinics in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

Worms
There is a high incidence of worms in Vietnam. It is recommended that worm medication be taken every six months.

Diarrhea
This is common in Vietnam. If it occurs, maintain a diet of bland foods or fluids only. Keep fluid intake high to avoid dehydration. If severe, consult a physician.

Sunburn
Even in cloudy cold weather sunburn can occur. Wear a sunscreen with SPF 15 or above for long hours in the sun. In case of sunburn, treat by taking a cool bath, staying out of the sun and drinking plenty of fluids. Avoid alcohol – it causes dehydration.

Pharmacies
Many medicines sold in many local pharmacies are "copies’ of the real thing. Seek advice from a reliable pharmacy (you can ring us for advice in either Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi).

Immunizations
The most frequent infections in travelers for which vaccines are available are hepatitis A and typhoid fever. Hepatitis B is of high incidence in Vietnam, and tetanus remains a concern. When travelling to high risk areas, Japanese B encephalitis prevention is recommended (again contact us for advice).

Getting around
Traffic accidents are the single largest health concern in Vietnam. Helmets should be worn when riding motorbikes and bicycles, whether you are the passenger or the driver. Be sure your insurance covers you as a driver in Vietnam. If not, don’t drive a motor vehicle – it could nullify your insurance coverage.

Seat belts should be worn at all times in cars. Be sure to have your blood group, insurance cards and identification readily available in case of an emergency.

Eating and Drinking

Water
Don’t drink from the tap, and brush your teeth with safe water. But drink much boiled or bottled water on a daily basis to stay hydrated. Also take many fruit juices with ice cubes make from boiled or bottled water.

Food
Eat in clean establishments. Fruit and vegetables should be peeled or thoroughly cleaned and cooked. Precooked foods in street stalls should be completely avoided. All meat and fish should be thoroughly cooked. Remember while local dishes are a delightful treat, contaminated food and drink can cause vomiting, diarrhea, typhoid, and hepatitis A.

Source: Family Medical Practice