Dengue Fever Vaccination for Foreigners in Ho Chi Minh City

Dengue fever, a mosquito-borne illness, is a health risk in Vietnam, especially during the rainy season (June–October). For foreigners in Ho Chi Minh City—expats, digital nomads, or tourists—the dengue vaccine offers protection. This concise guide covers vaccine options, where to get them, costs, and tips, optimized for SEO.

Why Get the Dengue Vaccine?

Dengue, spread by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, causes flu-like symptoms and, in severe cases, life-threatening complications. The World Health Organization estimates 390 million annual cases globally, with Vietnam reporting over 172,000 cases in 2023. Vaccination reduces risks for foreigners in urban or rural areas.

Dengue Vaccines Available

Vietnam offers:

• Qdenga (Takeda): Protects against all four dengue serotypes (DEN-1, DEN-2, DEN-3, DEN-4). For ages 4+, given in two doses, 3 months apart.
• Dengvaxia (Sanofi Pasteur): Recommended for those with prior dengue infection. Requires medical consultation.

Who Should Get Vaccinated?

• Ages 4+: Suitable for children and adults, no prior dengue required for Qdenga.
• Long-term visitors: Expats or those staying 3+ months to complete the Qdenga schedule.
• Tourists: Must plan for the two-dose timeline or continue series started elsewhere.

Where to Get Vaccinated in Ho Chi Minh City

1. Family Medical Practice: 34 Le Duan, District 1. English-speaking staff, international standards.
2. CarePlus: 2 Phan Dinh Giot, Tan Binh District. Affordable, English support.
3. VNVC (Vietnam Vaccine JSC): 198 Hoang Van Thu, Phu Nhuan District. Cost-effective, limited English.
4. Pasteur Institute: 167 Pasteur Street, District 3. Reliable, research-backed, limited English.

Vaccination Process

1. Book Appointment: Schedule online or by phone; walk-ins often accepted.
2. Consultation: Brief medical history review.
3. Injection: Administered in the upper arm.
4. Observation: Stay 15–30 minutes for side effect monitoring.
5. Follow-Up: Schedule second Qdenga dose 3 months later.

No prescription is needed, and international clinics offer English support.

Costs

• Qdenga: ~$80–$120 per dose.
• Dengvaxia: ~$60–$100 per dose.

Prices are lower at VNVC; confirm availability when booking.

Tips for Foreigners

• Bring ID: Passport or identification required.
• Wear Short Sleeves: For easy injection access.
• Eat Lightly: Have a small meal beforehand.
• Request English Records: For future medical use.
• Language Support: Use translation apps at VNVC or Pasteur Institute.
• Prevent Bites: Use 20–30% DEET repellent, wear long clothing, and monitor for symptoms post-exposure.

Considerations for Tourists

Tourists need a 3-month stay for Qdenga’s full schedule. If continuing a series, ensure dose intervals match. Prioritize mosquito bite prevention (repellent, nets) for short stays.

Conclusion

Dengue vaccination in Ho Chi Minh City is accessible at clinics like Family Medical Practice and VNVC. Protect yourself with Qdenga or Dengvaxia and complement with bite prevention. Schedule your appointment today to stay safe.