Health in Vietnam - Vietnam Vaccinations :

DTP Vaccination : Diphtheria, Tetanus and Polio. This combined vaccination is recommended for almost everywhere outside Europe.The vaccination lasts for 10 years. 

Hepatitis A Vaccination : You can choose either short-term or long-term protection; the long-term vaccination lasts 10 years. 

Typhoid Vaccination : This vaccination is advised by most health organisation, if you are planning to stay for longer than 2 weeks in Vietnam. The vaccination provides 3 years' protection.

 

Health in Vietnam : Malaria
Malaria does exist in Vietnam, and although it is not a major problem it is extremely important you seek up-to-date advice from your GP before you travel. The entire coastal region and the flat delta regions (Red River Delta and Mekong Delta) are almost malaria-free, except for the most southerly point of the Mekong Delta to the south of Ca Mau (where we actually do not offer any modules). All provincial capitals are also malaria-free except for Kon Tum. For most of the modules we offer anti-malaria medicine is not necessary.

Because anti-malaria medicine is quite strong, and the fact that there is not a really large risk of malaria in many areas, some travellers do not take any medication. That is the decision of each traveller, and should be based upon the information they have received from the National Health Service or medical authority.

The best bet is to try and reduce the risk of catching malaria by preventative health measures. Keeping your arms, legs and feet covered in the evenings, using anti-mosquito spray/cream on exposed areas of skin (the best ones contain DEET), and sleeping under a mosquito net where possible.

If during or after your trip you find yourself with flu-like symptoms lasting longer than two days (even up to 2 months after your return to the UK), seek the advice of a doctor or health proffessional immediately, and advise them that you have been to Vietnam.

Health in Vietnam : Dengue fever and Japanese B encephalitis

Both of these diseases are carried by mosquitoes, so you can take the same precautions as for malaria. For more information about these diseases, and the status of any outbreaks, you're advised to seek the advice of the National Health Service or a suitable medical institution or health proffessional.

There is no vaccination against dengue, however, there is for a vaccination for Japanese B encephalitis, which is advised only if you are going to be in Asia for longer than six months.

Health in Vietnam Before you travel.....

You are advised to visit your local GP at least 6 weeks before you depart. They can check your records and advise what vaccinations you already have, what you will need and any other health precautions you may need to take.

If you are currently taking prescription medicines, take the information leaflet with you and some spare medicine.
This can help in two ways :
1) There will be no chance for confusion at customs
2) It will make life much easier if you lose your medication and need to replace it whilst away.

If you wear glasses or use contact lenses, it's a good idea to take a copy of your prescription or a spare pair of glasses/lenses.

Websites:
www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk
http://www.tripprep.com/
http://www.who.int/countries/vnm/en/ 

Health in Vietnam on location 

Of course it's important that you try to maintain a good level of health while you are in Vietnam. When you're away on holiday remain alert: when in doubt, consult a doctor. If you have language problems you can ask our local agents in the larger towns and cities of Vietnam.
 

Health in Vietnam : Jet lag
Jet lag is when your biological clock is confused, caused by flying through different time zones. The body has to adjust to the new biorhythm for the first few days after your flight, during which time you can feel tired in the day and awake at night.

Health in Vietnam : Overcoming jet lag
It's generally recommended that you drink limited amounts of coffee or alcohol during the flight, and upon arrival don't demand too much of your body for the first couple of days. It's also handy to get into the new sleeping pattern as quickly as possible. What we usually do is sleep for an hour after arrival, and then stay awake and have an early night.

Health in Vietnam : Diarrhoea
A change of routine, climate and food (especially spicy) can throw your stomach out of sorts. As long as it is only loose, watery stools and there are no other symptoms, it's normally unnecessary to take anything; just take it easy and drink plenty of water in small quantities. Children and the elderly may require some Oral Rehydration Salts, these are dissolved in water and prevent dehydration. Drugs, such as lope amide and diphenoxylate, may be taken if you really have to travel when you have diarrhoea (not suitable for children under two years old). These drugs have the effect of sedating the intestines, which stops stomach cramps and suppresses the diarrhoea, but doesn't actually cure it. Only use these drugs when you're on the move and cannot get to the toilet regularly. If the diarrhoea: persists for more than 48 hours, AND is accompanied by a headache, vomiting, or blood in the stool OR; you’re taking any other medication at the time, you should contact a doctor. Remember that diarrhoea can prevent oral contraception pills working properly.
 

Health in Vietnam : Diarrhoea prevention

Only consume water, and soft drinks from properly closed and sealed bottles or cans. Drinks made with boiled bottled water, such as tea or coffee are also fine. Ice is only trustworthy in the form of manufactured bagged ice, but this is widely available. Fruit juice is safe, but only if no water has been added. Food, especially meat and fish must be cooked properly, so that it is well cooked all the way through. 

In Vietnam eating food from street stalls is common place, but to prevent illness a good idea is to eat where it's busy. This usually means that the food is good, and that the turnover means the time between food preparation and consumption is the shortest possible. It's probably best not to eat meat at the end of the day, as the meat can sometimes have been lying around all day in the heat un-refrigerated.

Further Tips: 

Health in Vietnam : Sunstroke
Sunstroke can be prevented by wearing a hat and sunglasses. Always try and keep a bottle of water with you, especially if you're out in the wilderness and unlikely to come across drinking water. If you suspect sunstroke (feeling light-headed, headaches), you can prevent it from getting worse by drinking water and finding somewhere in the shade to rest.
 
Health after Vietnam: When you get home.....

After your trip to Vietnam (and this can be months later), pay close attention to your health for a little while. If you contract flu like symptoms, have stomach problems, or experience something unusual symptoms, contact your GP and let them know that you've been to Vietnam.