Vietnam Travel Vaccinations - Are You Ready For Your Trip Overseas?A popular destination due to the rich culture and undeniably delicious food, Vietnam is also a destination of risk when it comes to disease contraction and travel vaccinations are encouraged.
Vietnam is one of the many developing countries which requires a more vigilant approach to food and water consumption to avoid the side-effects of potential contamination. Cholera, Typhoid and Hepatitis are of particular concern when it comes to travelling around this scenic country. Although these diseases can affect different organs, they can all be attributed to poor waste disposal or unhygienic practices. Whilst the sanitation processes of a developing country is out of your control, vaccinating against these diseases and exercising caution, can help you avoid contracting them so consulting a travel doctor to receive advice on what vaccinations are required for Vietnam is never a bad idea.
Do I need vaccinations for Vietnam?
Walking through the bustling streets of Hanoi can be a stressful or exhilarating experience. With such dense population in these tourist hot spots, we leave ourselves vulnerable to airborne or environmental threats that are not as easy to see coming as a speeding motorbike. Tuberculosis is another risk of developing countries such as Vietnam, and unfortunately, it’s as easy to catch as being in close proximity of someone infected. Similarly, Rabies can be another unsuspecting disease as the temptation to approach or pat roaming animals becomes too great. The problem with human mannerisms and animal temperaments is you cannot predict it. You cannot be certain that someone will cover their mouth during that cough or whether the fluffy dog will allow you to pat it without lashing out from fear of threat and cause infection. We believe that prevention with vaccination is better than cure, and to always consider the potential risks involved with a place or interaction in an unfamiliar country.
Away from the more commercialised areas of Vietnam, there is a lot more to discover in visiting the beautiful national parks and touring the Mekong Delta. In more rural areas, it’s important to dress appropriately and protect your skin against potentially harmful insects. We’re no strangers to the mosquito in Australia, however, those that reside in rural areas of Vietnam can carry a serious disease called Japanese Encephalitis. Some people are lucky to feel mild symptoms but this disease can infect people to the point of disorientation, convulsions and even paralysis. So when considering activities off the beaten track during the planning of your trip, also consider whether you’re adequately prepared for different environments and what they might expose you to.
There are risks associated with any destination you travel, fortunately, the ones we’ve mentioned can be prevented with travel vaccinations well in advance of your departure. Rokeby GP have a team of specialists who love to travel and have a wealth of knowledge when it comes to protecting your health on overseas adventures. Book a consultation to find out more or book your travel vaccinations for Vietnam today.