Staying Healthy in Vietnam - How to Deal with Health Issue

Overall Vietnam is a healthy and safe country in which to travel, but one should not expect western levels of development in all areas. Food-borne illnesses are probably the most commonly encountered health issue in the country, but keep reading to make sure you have all your bases covered.

Food and Drink

Street food in Vietnam is relatively safe – especially when compared to street food in some of Vietnam's neighbors – and restaurant food can be trusted.

If you have a sensitive stomach, however, try checking apps like YELP for reviews before eating somewhere new. Such apps can be a good way of finding current information about whether food is making other travelers sick.

It's always recommended to avoid raw and undercooked meat. If you are from a western country you are probably accustomed to eating raw fruit and vegetables. If you wish to do this while in Vietnam, make sure you wash the produce yourself. Under- and unwashed produce is a major cause of food-borne illness in unsuspecting travelers.

The organization Water Environment Partnership in Asia and the United States State Department conduct routine independent tests on drinking water. The number of illnesses caused by water in the country seems to be decreasing, but the overall levels of pollution in the ground water are increasing along with development.

In short, drinking only bottled or boiled water is a smart move for any travelers who want to avoid spending their vacation in the bathroom. Do not forget that ice is water! Smoothies and fruit juices can be as dangerous as a glass of tap-water.

13-Day Vietnam Classic Tour with Sapa Ho Chi Minh - Mekong Delta - Danang - Hoi An - Hue - Hanoi - Sapa- Halong Bay

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Before you Go

If you are used to luxuries like screens in the windows of your hospital room, then you might find medical facilities in Vietnam to be a bit deficient. While the country's education system is competitive and its medical professionals are typically well-trained and knowledgeable, the actual facilities are less impressive.

Whatever the medical facilities are like, no one wants to spend their vacation in a doctor's office. Here are a few things you can do to avoid finding out how well you like the Vietnamese hospitals.

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Stay Hydrated

Vietnam is hot and humid most of the year. Air-conditioning does exist, but do not expect to find it everywhere. You will probably spend a lot of time walking around, so make sure you drink lots of water.

If you find yourself getting tired easily or feeling alternately warm and cool, seek out some shade, or go back to your hotel to rest somewhere cool.

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Wildlife and Bug Bites

Vietnam has a tropical climate, making it home to a diverse variety of flora and fauna that makes for excellent sightseeing. Beautiful tropical birds and flowers live within this diverse ecosystem, as well as their more dangerous cousins.

If you do plan to do any outdoor exploration, it is always recommended to go with an experienced professional.

Water-borne diseases and toxic plants and animals make survival in the wilds of Vietnam challenging. Stay on established trails, always carry a waterproof map, and whenever possible, use a guide. Avoid ALL contact with wild animals.

Mosquitoes and other biting insects are as common in Vietnam as pho noodles. In the cities they do not seem to be overly aggressive, but if you are planning a trip to the Mekong River or any other rural area with lots of water, you can expect a swarm or two in the evening.

Repellents are easy to find in convenience stores, as is anti-itch cream.

You might like to read

• Top Things to Do in Vietnam
• Top 9 Attractions in Ho Chi Minh City

Explore Vietnam with Asia Highlights

The safest way to travel to any new country is as part of a tour group. Our guides are familiar with the country and friendly to customers, and will ensure you have a safe and positive trip. Browse the tour options below to start planning your trip to Vietnam.

Check out the following links to learn more about our tours and get a head start on planning your hassle-free vacation today!

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