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Follow our news, recent searches, what you need to know about singapore's new vaccinated travel framework, advertisement.

A woman walks across a link bridge to a terminal at Singapore's Changi Airport on Sep 8, 2021. (File photo: AFP/Roslan Rahman)

Vanessa Lim

SINGAPORE: A new simplified framework that will allow fully vaccinated travellers to enter Singapore quarantine-free will come into effect from Apr 1, replacing all existing vaccinated travel lanes (VTL) and unilateral opening arrangements.

On Thursday (Mar 24), the Ministry of Health (MOH) announced that all countries and regions will be classified into two categories - general travel or the restricted category - under the new vaccinated travel framework.

All fully vaccinated travellers, as well as children aged 12 and below, will be able to enter Singapore with just a pre-departure COVID-19 test from 11.59pm on Mar 31.

They will also no longer need to apply for entry approvals or take designated VTL transport to enter Singapore quarantine-free.

Here's what travellers need to know about entering Singapore under the new framework, once it kicks in.

WHO CAN ENTER SINGAPORE QUARANTINE-FREE?

All fully vaccinated travellers from any country or region will be able to enter Singapore without the need for quarantine, as long as they have not visited any countries or regions in the restricted category in the past seven days.

There are currently no countries or regions on the restricted category.

This means that such travellers will no longer be required to apply for a vaccinated travel pass (VTP) or air travel pass (ATP) for entry into Singapore.

Travellers holding a valid VTP or ATP can continue to enter Singapore under the VTL or unilateral opening arrangement until Mar 31, after which, they will no longer be required to present their passes.

While non-fully vaccinated long-term pass-holders and short-term visitors aged 13 and above are generally not allowed to enter Singapore, there are a few exceptions:

• Long-term pass-holders who are medically ineligible for vaccines
• Long-term pass-holders and short-term visitors who have valid entry approval such as compassionate reasons
• Long-term pass-holders aged between 13 and 17, who will be subjected to a seven-day stay-home notice and an exit polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test after their isolation period

WHAT ARE THE TESTING REQUIREMENTS?

Fully vaccinated travellers will no longer need to take any COVID-19 tests in Singapore.

However, they must take a pre-departure test within two days before departing for Singapore and obtain a negative test result. This can either be a PCR test, a professionally administered antigen rapid test (ART) or a remotely supervised self-administered ART.

On Thursday, Transport Minister S Iswaran said the Government will review the removal of the pre-departure test requirement in “two to four weeks by mid-April”, taking into account the prevailing public health assessment.

As for non-fully vaccinated long-term pass-holders and short-term visitors who are allowed to enter Singapore, they will be required to take a pre-departure test within two days before departure for Singapore, undergo a seven-day stay-home notice, and take a PCR test after their isolation period. 

DO I NEED TO TAKE DESIGNATED FLIGHTS OR FERRIES?

From Apr 1, all existing VTLs and unilateral opening arrangements will be retired. As such, fully vaccinated travellers will be able to enter Singapore on any flight or ferry. There will also be no more quotas applied on daily or weekly arrivals.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR SHORT-TERM VISITORS

In addition to pre-departure COVID-19 tests, foreign short-term visitors holding passports or travel documents issued by visa-required countries or regions must apply for an entry visa.

They must also purchase travel insurance, with a minimum coverage of S$30,000 for COVID-19-related medical treatment and hospitalisation costs, prior to their travel to Singapore. These visitors must also download and use Singapore’s contact tracing app - TraceTogether app - while in the country.

WHAT HAPPENS IF I GET COVID-19 AFTER I RETURN?

Fully vaccinated Singapore residents as well as long-term pass holders who travel to places under the general category, will no longer be required to pay for COVID-19-related treatment in hospitals or government facilities, if they develop symptoms or test positive within 14 days of their return to Singapore.

However, those travelling to places under the restricted category - regardless of their vaccination status - will be required to pay for medical bills in hospitals and dedicated COVID-19 treatment and recovery facilities, if they develop onset of symptoms or test positive for COVID-19 within seven days of their return to Singapore.

As for those who are not fully vaccinated, they will remain responsible for their COVID-19 treatment costs, as per the charging policy for unvaccinated individuals who contracted COVID- 19 in the community.

Singapore to suspend vaccination channels for overseas Singaporeans

Singapore, Malaysia agree to work towards fully resuming air, land travel for vaccinated people: Ong Ye Kung

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Singapore to allow quarantine-free travel from the US starting in mid-October

Singapore is easing entry requirements for vaccinated travelers from the United States, starting Oct. 19. 

The country’s Ministry of Transport announced plans to expand its vaccinated travel lanes, or VTLs, to eight more countries, allowing them to enter without a quarantine period . The country initially opened travel lanes to two countries, Brunei and Germany, on Sept. 8.

Singapore officials labeled the travel lanes a success after only two of the more than 3,100 travelers who entered Singapore  from the two countries brought in COVID-19 cases. Both cases were identified through PCR tests, and the travelers were isolated and had no interaction with the community, according to Transport Minister S. Iswaran. 

“We have monitored the VTL scheme closely and are encouraged by the outcomes,” Iswaran said Saturday.  

Testing requirements for travelers

Most U.S. citizens are not allowed to travel to Singapore for short-term visits.

Learn more: Best travel insurance

Starting Oct. 19, travelers from the U.S. can enter Singapore  as long as they show proof of vaccination and test negative through a PCR test twice: once 48 hours before departure and again upon arrival. 

Travelers must also show they have only been in a VTL-approved country in the 14-days prior to departure.

► Travel to UK: England relaxes travel restrictions further

Restoring two-way travel

Denmark, France, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, the United Kingdom, Canada will also get access to VTLs this October, Iswarni announced Saturday. A joint VTL launch with South Korea , set to begin Nov. 15, was previously announced Friday. 

Together, the 11 countries – including the U.S., Brunei and Germany – are among Singapore’s top 20 trading partners and account for about 10% of the country’s pre-pandemic annual passenger arrivals at Changi Airport. 

“All 8 countries are already open to travelers from Singapore. So the VTLs will restore two-way quarantine-free travel between Singapore and them,” the transport minister said. 

► Passport status: Wait times are dropping, but travelers are still waiting months for it

'A significant step up' for reopening Singapore's borders

Applications for the transport lanes open Tuesday, and travelers can enter the country starting Oct. 19, Iswaran said. No more than 3,000 daily arrivals from the VTL countries will be allowed per day. 

“We will monitor the incidence rate, observe the demand, before deciding on any further increases in capacity,” Iswaran said. “While still a far cry from where we were pre-COVID, this is a significant step in the reopening of our borders, and crucial to reclaiming and rebuilding our status as an international aviation hub with global connectivity.” 

► Bali welcomes some international flights: American tourists still have to wait

The announcement comes as Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong lays out an updated plan for a “new normal” in Singapore, pivoting away from a “Zero COVID” goal to “Living with COVID-19” now that more than 85% of its population is fully vaccinated.

“It will take us at least three months, and perhaps as long as six months to get to this new normal,” he said Saturday. “The next few months will be trying. I expect daily cases to continue rising for some weeks. Our healthcare system will still be under pressure. We can slow, but we cannot stop the Delta variant.”

Follow USA TODAY reporter Bailey Schulz on Twitter: @bailey_schulz . 

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Singapore to set up quarantine-free 'vaccinated travel lanes'

Visitors from Germany and Brunei eligible first; city-state also opens to Hong Kong

SINGAPORE -- Singapore plans to allow travelers who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 to enter the country without quarantining, as it aims to open up borders and resuscitate its core tourism and aviation sectors.

Singapore's 'vaccinated travel lane' opens despite rise in COVID

Starting Sept. 8, travelers coming from Germany and Brunei will be allowed to use special "vaccinated travel lanes" regardless of the purpose of their trips, the government announced on Thursday.

Singapore's 'vaccinated travel lane' opens despite rise in COVID

Singapore ups 2021 gdp outlook to 6-7% on fast vaccine progress, singapore to ease border and other covid rules as shots reach 70%, singapore airlines grapples with delta variant as covid losses persist, singapore holds out hope for coexisting with covid as cases rise, southeast asia fundamentals 'intact' despite covid: sea economist, singapore looks to 'live with covid' as vaccine coverage nears 50%, latest on covid vaccines, moderna eyes local covid vaccines for japan, other countries, japan weighs recommending annual covid shots for most, japan's 1st plant for mrna covid vaccine to be built by daiichi sankyo, sponsored content, about sponsored content this content was commissioned by nikkei's global business bureau..

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Singapore Started Welcoming Vaccinated Americans Today — A Day After CDC Warned Travelers Against Going

Singapore is now designated as a "Level 4" country.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has added Singapore to its highest travel warning level just as the Southeast Asian country is beginning to welcome American visitors again.

The CDC upgraded Singapore to a "Level 4" on Monday, warning all Americans "to avoid" traveling there. The "Level 4" indicates a "very high level" of COVID-19 transmission in the country. The Department of State similarly upgraded the country to its highest warning level, telling people "do not travel" there.

"Because of the current situation in Singapore, even fully vaccinated travelers may be at risk for getting and spreading COVID-19 variants," the CDC wrote in its advisory.

The CDC designates destinations as a "Level 4" if there are at least 500 COVID-19 cases per 100,000 people.

The warnings come as Singapore started welcoming vaccinated travelers from several countries to enter quarantine-free under a " Vaccinated Travel Lanes " program on Tuesday, including from the United States.

Travelers who do head to Singapore must be fully vaccinated with an approved vaccine, have spent the past 14 days in one of the approved countries, show proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 48 hours of their departure, arrive on a designated VTL flight, and fill out an SG Arrival Card within three days of their arrival. Travelers must also pre-pay for an arrival test and isolate until they receive a negative result, and short-term travelers must obtain travel insurance.

Singapore is currently seeing a spike in new coronavirus infections, reporting more than 3,000 new cases per day, according to Reuters . When it comes to vaccines, the wire service estimates the country has vaccinated about 86.5% of its population.

The latest CDC and State Department warnings — which are reviewed on a weekly basis — also come as the U.S. prepares to open its borders to vaccinated foreign tourists next month, accepting people who have been inoculated with half a dozen COVID-19 vaccines which have been approved by the World Health Organization.

Alison Fox is a contributing writer for Travel + Leisure. When she's not in New York City, she likes to spend her time at the beach or exploring new destinations and hopes to visit every country in the world. Follow her adventures on Instagram .

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Home » Travel Vaccinations for Singaporeans: Vaccine Types and Where to Get Them

Travel Vaccinations for Singaporeans: Vaccine Types and Where to Get Them

Update:The vaccinations below were recommended for travel in a regular climate. Due to the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) outbreak, there are new travel advisories and guidelines to safeguard yourself. Please check the World Health Organization and the Singapore Ministry of Health for up-to-date advice and travel restrictions on the evolving situation.

When it comes to planning an exciting trip, getting a travel vaccination is probably the furthest thing from your mind. People don’t normally give their vaccination records a second glance when they’re excited about a vacation! However, with the recent viral outbreaks that have been occurring all over the world , it’s better to be safe than sorry! You wouldn’t want to get sick while on vacation, would you?

But first, you might be wondering…

Do I really need travel vaccinations?

What are the recommended travel vaccinations, if you’re travelling to  china , india , vietnam , indonesia.

Recommended vaccinations: Routine vaccinations, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Influenza, Japanese Encephalitis*, Rabies* (highly recommended), Typhoid, Anti-malarial medications*

If you didn’t already know, China is ground zero for the 2019-nCoV outbreak ( now called COVID-19 ). There are currently no vaccines for the virus. The best way to prevent infection is to avoid being exposed to it. Because of this, there have been tighter China travel restrictions in countries all over the world . The CDC also recommends travellers to avoid nonessential travel to China.

If you’re travelling to  South America

Recommended vaccinations: Routine vaccinations, Yellow Fever, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Influenza, Japanese Encephalitis*, Rabies* (highly recommended), Typhoid, Anti-malarial medications*

The  yellow fever  vaccine may be required for travel to certain parts of South America and Africa. This is because this viral infection can be transmitted through a bite from infected mosquitoes in these two regions . It’s also highly recommended to get a rabies vaccination before visiting any countries in South America . This is particularly true if you will be taking part in outdoor activities in remote areas.

If you’re travelling to  Africa

Recommended vaccinations: Routine vaccinations, Yellow Fever*, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Influenza, Rabies* (highly recommended), Typhoid, Anti-malarial medications*

When travelling to Africa, anti-malaria medications are a must. This is because 92% of global malaria cases are in the WHO African Region. This approximates to 200 million cases. You may need to take prescription medicine before, during, and after your trip to prevent malaria. Travellers are advised to wear long-sleeved clothing and long trousers, especially after sunset. Using insect repellents on exposed skin is also highly encouraged.

If you’re travelling to  Saudi Arabia

Recommended vaccinations: Routine vaccinations, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Influenza (highly recommended), Meningococcal* (recommended), Rabies*, Anti-malarial medications*, Yellow Fever

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) has a meningococcal vaccine requirement during the hajj, the annual pilgrimage to Mecca. KSA requires proof of vaccination as part of the hajj and umrah visa application process. Aside from meningococcal vaccine, yellow fever vaccine is also required for anyone arriving from a yellow fever-endemic country.

Note: Routine vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot .

*Risk depends on the area of travel in the country

Where can I get travel vaccinations in Singapore and how much do they cost?

Public hospitals: most affordable.

Approximate Cost of Travel Vaccinations (excluding consultation fees):

• Hepatitis A (2 doses) – $85 to $136
• Hepatitis B (3 doses) – $75 to $186
• Influenza (1 dose) – $35 to $38
• Japanese Encephalitis (1-2 doses) – $240 to $760
• Meningococcal (1 dose) – $72 to $100
• Rabies (3-5 doses) – $480 to $1140
• Typhoid (1 dose) – $18 to $40
• Yellow Fever (1 dose) – $140 to $198

Polyclinics: Most Convenient

Polyclinics are generally considered the more convenient option as they are situated close to residential neighbourhoods. However, the availability of vaccines is limited compared to hospitals. Influenza vaccines tend to run out of stock during the holiday season when everyone is getting ready to travel. It is important to know that polyclinics tend to close earlier than regular office hours and have a lunch break in between. Vaccine prices at polyclinics are also the same as long as they belong to the same group of polyclinics.

• Hepatitis A (2 doses) – $160 to $175
• Hepatitis B (3 doses) – $90 to $120
• Influenza (1 dose) – $32 to $34
• Meningococcal (1 dose) – $71 to $76
• Typhoid (1 dose) – $28 to $30

Private Clinics/Hospitals: Most Expensive

Private clinics/hospitals are your best bet if both public hospitals and polyclinics are closed. Private hospitals tend to carry more vaccines than private clinics. They are generally conveniently-located at high-traffic locations and near residential areas. They’re also good for when you can’t visit public hospitals and polyclinics during regular office hours. Compared to both public hospitals and polyclinics, however, they’re generally more expensive.

• Hepatitis A (2 doses) – $156 to $232
• Hepatitis B (3 doses) – $102 to $125
• Influenza (1 dose) – $28 to $35
• Japanese Encephalitis (1-2 doses) – $45 to $90
• Meningococcal (1 dose) – $100 to $138
• Rabies (3-5 doses) – $507 to $1066
• Typhoid (1 dose) – $35 to $36
• Yellow Fever (1 dose) – $200 to $206

How can I pay for my travel vaccines?

For Singaporeans, you can use up to $500 from your MediSave account (under the new MediSave500 scheme) to pay for approved vaccinations each year. Approved vaccinations include the 7 types of vaccines covered by the National Adult Immunisation Schedule (NAIS) .

Unfortunately, most travel vaccines are not covered by MediSave500. Unless your insurance provider covers it, you’ll need to pay for it yourself. One exception is the flu shot which is given to those considered to be of higher risk such as those over 65 years of age, pregnant women, and those with chronic illnesses.

How far ahead should I get my travel vaccines?

Many travel immunisations need to be given in a series of shots given over a period of days or weeks. Vaccines also take some time to work. This is why you should wait until the last minute to get vaccinated. Travel health experts recommend getting your shots at least 4 to 6 weeks before your scheduled trip .

The bottom line

When it comes to travelling, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Regardless of where you’re going, it’s best to have your vaccination records updated. It is also important to note that travel vaccinations are not “one size fits all”. The risk profile of each traveller will vary depending on your travel behaviour. The area of the country you’re going to and the activities you’ll be doing can increase or decrease your risk. That’s why we encourage you to see your healthcare provider before embarking on a trip!

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Travel Advisory

Health Advisory for Travellers The Ministry of Health would like to advise all travellers visiting any country to be vigilant and to adopt the following precautions, where relevant: Before trip: • Visit your doctor four to six weeks before your trip for a travel health risk assessment, including advice on vaccinations required or prophylaxis recommended prior to travel. • Please take note of our yellow fever vaccination requirement to enter Singapore if you will be travelling to a country at risk for yellow fever. Refer to the following link for more details  https://www.moh.gov.sg/diseases-updates/yellow-fever. • Keep up-to-date with the recommended vaccinations and boosters in the National Adult Immunisation Schedule (NAIS) or National Childhood Immunisation Schedule (NCIS).  • Check and be aware of the health situation and entry requirements for your destination country. Some countries may require proof of vaccination for diseases such as yellow fever, meningococcal etc., before you are allowed entry. During trip: • Observe and practise good personal hygiene at all times. • Wash your hands regularly with soap, especially before handling food or eating, after going to the toilet, or when hands are dirty from coughing or sneezing. If water is not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser that contains at least 60% alcohol. • Avoid close contact with persons who are unwell or have symptoms of infectious diseases. • Cover your mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, and dispose the soiled tissue into the bin immediately. Avoid touching your face, including eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands after coughing or sneezing. • Eat food that have been fully cooked and wash fruits and vegetables before eating them. Avoid eating raw or undercooked meat and seafood, milk/milk products, and food prepared in unhygienic conditions. • Drink boiled water or water from sealed bottles. • Protect yourself from insect bites by using effective insect repellent (e.g. those containing DEET, Picaridin or IR3535 as the active ingredient), wearing long-sleeved clothes and long pants outdoors, and sleeping in an air-conditioned or insect-screened room, or under an insecticide-treated bed net. • Avoid feeding or touching animals, especially stray or wild animals. After trip: • Wear a mask and seek medical attention promptly if you become unwell or develop respiratory symptoms such as cough or runny nose, and inform the doctor of your travel history.

You might be interested in...

The Vaccinated Travel Framework (VTF) was launched in April 2022 to facilitate the safe resumption of international travel. Given the stable and improving global COVID-19 situation, and the low impact of imported cases on our healthcare capacity, the remaining COVID-19 border measures will be lifted.

From 13 February 2023,

• All non-fully vaccinated travellers entering Singapore will no longer be required to show proof of a negative Pre-Departure Test.
• Non-fully vaccinated Short Term Visitors will no longer be required to purchase COVID-19 travel insurance.

The VTF will remain in place for reactivation if there are international developments of concern, such as new severe variants or signs that our healthcare capacity is strained by imported cases.

Continued submission of health declaration and screening of infectious diseases

All travellers entering Singapore via air or sea (including Singapore residents), and Short-Term Visitors entering via land, are to continue submitting their health declaration via the SG Arrival Card e-service. They will also be screened for other infectious diseases of concern, such as Yellow Fever, Middle East Respiratory Syndrome and Ebola.

Travellers are advised to check the  ICA website  for the latest border measures before entering Singapore.

For more information, please refer to MOH’s  press release .

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Travel Vaccines and Advice for Singapore

Singapore is an increasingly popular tourist destination in Asia.

The country is a paradise for food-savvy travellers, combining Chinese, Malay and Indian influences. Visitors may also want to stop by Chinatown or Little India to see cultural integration at work.

Singapore boasts many impressive temples, parks and museums. Visitors may want to head over to Night Safari , where wild species can be seen in a whole new (lack of) light.

Singapore has lots to offer visitors with a wide variety of interests.

Do I Need Vaccines for Singapore?

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Singapore. The National Travel Health Network and Centre and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Singapore: COVID-19 , hepatitis B , yellow fever , Japanese encephalitis , rabies and tetanus .

See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunisations:

• COVID-19 – Airborne – Recommended for all travellers
• Hepatitis B – Blood & Body Fluids – Recommended for travellers to most regions.
• Tetanus – Wounds or Breaks in Skin – Recommended for travelers to most regions, especially if not previously vaccinated.
• Yellow Fever – Mosquito – Required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.
• Japanese Encephalitis – Mosquito – Recommended depending on itinerary and activities. Recommended for extended travel, recurrent travellers and travel to rural areas. Risk is throughout region, year-round.
• Rabies – Saliva of Infected Animals – Vaccine recommended for long-stay travellers and those who may come in contact with animals.

See the tables below for more information:

Dengue and chikungunya are present in Singapore and pose a threat to travellers in the region. Be sure to use mosquito repellents and netting whilst in-country.

See our vaccinations page to learn more about these infections and vaccines. Ready to protect yourself? Book your travel health appointment today by calling or schedule online now .

Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Singapore?

A visa is not required for travel to Singapore that last less than 90 days. Passports must have at least six months validity for entry. Proof of yellow fever vaccination may be required if you are travelling from a region where yellow fever is present.

Sources: Embassy of Singapore and GOV.UK

What is the Climate Like in Singapore?

Singapore’s climate is tropical, with lots of rainfall and humidity. Temperature is consistent, with averages around the mid-20’s throughout the year. Singapore is generally hottest in April and May and coolest in December and January.

Due to its near to the equator, Singapore does not have delineated wet and dry seasons. The country experiences two monsoon seasons, the northeast monsoon season from around December to March has more frequent rains. The southwest monsoon season, brings drier months from around May to September.

Travellers should be prepared for rain and humidity. Thunderstorms are frequent. Drink plenty of water and cool off indoors.

How Safe is Singapore?

Singapore is generally considered safe for travellers, and the crime rate is low. Travellers should keep track of their private belongings, especially whilst travelling in crowded places or by public transportation.

Be aware of the presence of extremist groups in Southeast Asia that have attacked neighbouring countries. In general, areas frequented by Westerners and UK citizens may be at a higher risk for terrorist attacks.

Singapore’s Rules

Singapore has some harsh penalties for items that many may view as fairly mundane. This includes:

• Arrests for jaywalking, littering or spitting
• Caning for graffiti or other kinds of vandalism
• Imprisonment, caning or fine for immigration violations

Sexually inappropriate behaviour, lewd remarks and violations of modesty can also be harshly punished.

Paralytic and disorderly conduct is punishable by fine or prison time. In many areas it is illegal to consume alcohol between 10:30 pm and 7:00 am in public places.

Singapore does not recognise same-sex unions, and LGBT travellers may face challenges or discrimination. The Penal Code criminalizes “acts of gross indecency” between two men, though the government has said it will not enforce this statute.

Travellers without their passports may be taken in for questioning.

What Should I Pack for Singapore?

Here are some essential items to consider for your trip to Singapore:

• Insect repellent and sun cream.
• An umbrella and rain jacket, waterproof clothing and shoes
• Light, breathable clothing
• Travel documents like passport and visa

Embassy of the United Kingdom in Singapore

If you are in Singapore and have an emergency (for example, been attacked, arrested or someone has died) contact the nearest consular services. Contact the embassy before arrival if you have additional questions on entry requirements, safety concerns or are in need of assistance.

British High Commission Singapore 100 Tanglin Road Singapore 247919 Singapore Telephone: (65) 6424 4200 Emergency Phone: (65) 6424 4200 Email: [email protected]

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On This Page: Do I Need Vaccines for Singapore? Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Singapore? What is the Climate Like in Singapore? How Safe is Singapore? Singapore’s Rules What Should I Pack To Singapore? Embassy of the United Kingdom in Singapore

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Measles — United States, January 1, 2020–March 28, 2024

Weekly / April 11, 2024 / 73(14);295–300

Adria D. Mathis, MSPH 1 ; Kelley Raines, MPH 1 ; Nina B. Masters, PhD 1 ; Thomas D. Filardo, MD 1 ; Gimin Kim, MS 1 ; Stephen N. Crooke, PhD 1 ; Bettina Bankamp, PhD 1 ; Paul A. Rota, PhD 1 ; David E. Sugerman, MD 1 ( View author affiliations )

What is already known about this topic?

Although endemic U.S. measles was declared eliminated in 2000, measles importations continue to occur. Prolonged outbreaks during 2019 threatened the U.S. measles elimination status.

What is added by this report?

During January 1, 2020–March 28, 2024, a total of 338 U.S. measles cases were reported; 29% of these cases occurred during the first quarter of 2024, almost all in persons who were unvaccinated or whose vaccination status was unknown. As of the end of 2023, U.S. measles elimination status was maintained.

What are the implications for public health practice?

Risk for widespread U.S. measles transmission remains low because of high population immunity. Enhanced efforts are needed to increase routine U.S. vaccination coverage, encourage vaccination before international travel, identify communities at risk for measles transmission, and rapidly investigate suspected measles cases to reduce cases and complications of measles.

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Measles is a highly infectious febrile rash illness and was declared eliminated in the United States in 2000. However, measles importations continue to occur, and U.S. measles elimination status was threatened in 2019 as the result of two prolonged outbreaks among undervaccinated communities in New York and New York City. To assess U.S. measles elimination status after the 2019 outbreaks and to provide context to understand more recent increases in measles cases, CDC analyzed epidemiologic and laboratory surveillance data and the performance of the U.S. measles surveillance system after these outbreaks. During January 1, 2020–March 28, 2024, CDC was notified of 338 confirmed measles cases; 97 (29%) of these cases occurred during the first quarter of 2024, representing a more than seventeenfold increase over the mean number of cases reported during the first quarter of 2020–2023. Among the 338 reported cases, the median patient age was 3 years (range = 0–64 years); 309 (91%) patients were unvaccinated or had unknown vaccination status, and 336 case investigations included information on ≥80% of critical surveillance indicators. During 2020–2023, the longest transmission chain lasted 63 days. As of the end of 2023, because of the absence of sustained measles virus transmission for 12 consecutive months in the presence of a well-performing surveillance system, U.S. measles elimination status was maintained. Risk for widespread U.S. measles transmission remains low because of high population immunity. However, because of the increase in cases during the first quarter of 2024, additional activities are needed to increase U.S. routine measles, mumps, and rubella vaccination coverage, especially among close-knit and undervaccinated communities. These activities include encouraging vaccination before international travel and rapidly investigating suspected measles cases.

Introduction

Measles is a highly infectious acute, febrile rash illness with a >90% secondary attack rate among susceptible contacts ( 1 ). High national 2-dose coverage with the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine led to the declaration of U.S. measles elimination* in 2000 ( 2 ). However, this elimination status was threatened in 2019 because of two prolonged outbreaks among undervaccinated communities in New York and New York City; these outbreaks accounted for 29% of all reported cases during 2001–2019 ( 2 ). To assess U.S. measles elimination status after the 2019 outbreaks and to provide context for understanding more recent increases in measles cases in 2024, † CDC assessed the epidemiologic and laboratory-based surveillance of measles in the United States and the performance of the U.S. measles surveillance system during January 1, 2020–March 28, 2024.

Reporting and Classification of Measles Cases

Confirmed measles cases § ( 1 ) are reported to CDC by state health departments through the National Notifiable Disease Surveillance System and directly (by email or telephone) to the National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases. Measles cases are classified by the Council of State and Territorial Epidemiologists as import-associated if they were internationally imported, epidemiologically linked to an imported case, or had viral genetic evidence of an imported measles genotype ( 1 ); cases with no epidemiologic or virologic link to an imported case are classified as having an unknown source ( 1 ). For this analysis, unique sequences were defined as those differing by at least one nucleotide in the N-450 sequence (the 450 nucleotides encoding the carboxyl-terminal 150 nucleoprotein amino acids) based on the standard World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations for describing sequence variants ¶ ( 3 ). Unvaccinated patients were classified as eligible for vaccination if they were not vaccinated according to Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommendations ( 4 ). A well-performing surveillance system was defined as one with ≥80% of cases meeting each of the following three criteria: classified as import-associated, reported with complete information on at least eight of 10 critical surveillance indicators (i.e., place of residence, sex, age, occurrence of fever and rash, date of rash onset, vaccination status, travel history, hospitalization, transmission setting, and whether the case was outbreak-related) ( 5 ), and laboratory-confirmed.

Assessment of Chains of Transmission

Cases were classified into chains of transmission on the basis of known epidemiologic linkages: isolated (single) cases, two-case chains (two epidemiologically linked cases), and outbreaks (three or more epidemiologically linked cases). The potential for missed cases within two-case chains and outbreaks was assessed by measuring the interval between measles rash onset dates in each chain; chains with more than one maximum incubation period (21 days) between cases could indicate a missing case in the chain. This activity was reviewed by CDC, deemed not research, and was conducted consistent with applicable federal law and CDC policy.**

Reported Measles Cases and Outbreaks

CDC was notified of 338 confirmed measles cases with rash onset during January 1, 2020–March 28, 2024 ( Figure ); cases occurred in 30 jurisdictions. During 2020, 12 of 13 cases preceded the commencement of COVID-19 mitigation efforts in March 2020. Among the 170 cases reported during 2021 and 2022, 133 (78%) were associated with distinct outbreaks: 47 (96%) of 49 cases in 2021 occurred among Afghan evacuees temporarily housed at U.S. military bases during Operation Allies Welcome, and 86 (71%) of 121 cases in 2022 were associated with an outbreak in central Ohio. During 2023, 28 (48%) of 58 cases were associated with four outbreaks. As of March 28, 2024, a total of 97 cases have been reported in 2024, representing 29% of all 338 measles cases reported during January 1, 2020–March 28, 2024, and more than a seventeenfold increase over the mean number of cases reported during the first quarter of 2020–2023 (five cases).

Characteristics of Reported Measles Cases

The median patient age was 3 years (range = 0–64 years); more than one half of cases (191; 58%) occurred in persons aged 16 months–19 years ( Table ). Overall, 309 (91%) patients were unvaccinated (68%) or had unknown vaccination status (23%); 29 (9%) had previously received ≥1 MMR vaccine dose. Among the 309 cases among unvaccinated persons or persons with unknown vaccination status, 259 (84%) patients were eligible for vaccination, 40 (13%) were aged 6–11 months and therefore not recommended for routine MMR vaccination, and 10 (3%) were ineligible for MMR because they were aged <6 months. †† Among 155 (46%) hospitalized measles patients, 109 (70%) cases occurred in persons aged <5 years; 142 (92%) hospitalized patients were unvaccinated or had unknown vaccination status. No measles-associated deaths were reported to CDC.

Imported Measles Cases

Among all 338 cases, 326 (96%) were associated with an importation; 12 (4%) had an unknown source. Among the 326 import-associated cases, 200 (61%) occurred among U.S. residents who were eligible for vaccination but who were unvaccinated or whose vaccination status was unknown. Among 93 (28%) measles cases that were directly imported from other countries, 34 (37%) occurred in foreign visitors, and 59 (63%) occurred in U.S. residents, 53 (90%) of whom were eligible for vaccination but were unvaccinated or whose vaccination status was unknown. One (2%) case in a U.S. resident occurred in a person too young for vaccination, two (3%) in persons who had previously received 1 MMR vaccine dose, and three (5%) in persons who had previously received 2 MMR vaccine doses. The most common source for internationally imported cases during the study period were the Eastern Mediterranean (48) and African (24) WHO regions. During the first quarter of 2024, a total of six internationally imported cases were reported from the European and South-East Asia WHO regions, representing a 50% increase over the mean number of importations from these regions during 2020–2023 (mean of two importations per year from each region).

Surveillance Quality Indicators

Overall, all but two of the 338 case investigations included information on ≥80% of the critical surveillance indicators; those two case investigations included information on 70% of critical surveillance indicators. Date of first case report to a health department was available for 219 (65%) case investigations; 127 (58%) cases were reported to health departments on or before the day of rash onset (IQR = 4 days before to 3 days after). Overall, 314 (93%) measles cases were laboratory confirmed, including 16 (5%) by immunoglobulin M (serologic) testing alone and 298 (95%) by real-time reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction (rRT-PCR). Among 298 rRT-PCR–positive specimens, 221 (74%) were successfully genotyped: 177 (80%) were genotype B3, and 44 (20%) were genotype D8. Twenty-two distinct sequence identifiers (DSIds) ( 3 ) for genotype B3 and 13 DSIds for genotype D8 were detected (Supplementary Figure, https://stacks.cdc.gov/view/cdc/152776 ). The longest period of detection for any DSId was 15 weeks (DSId 8346).

Chains of Transmission

The 338 measles cases were categorized into 92 transmission chains (Table); 62 (67%) were isolated cases, 10 (11%) were two-case chains, and 20 (22%) were outbreaks of three or more cases. Seven (35%) of 20 outbreaks occurred during 2024. §§ The median outbreak size was six cases (range = three–86 cases) and median duration of transmission was 20 days (range = 6–63 days). Among the 30 two-case chains and outbreaks, more than one maximum incubation period (21 days) did not elapse between any two cases.

Because of the absence of endemic measles virus transmission for 12 consecutive months in the presence of a well-performing surveillance system, as of the end of 2023, measles elimination has been maintained in the United States. U.S. measles elimination reduces the number of cases, deaths, and costs that would occur if endemic measles transmission were reestablished. Investigation of almost all U.S. measles cases reported since January 2020 were import-associated, included complete information on critical surveillance variables, were laboratory-confirmed by rRT-PCR, and underwent genotyping; these findings indicate that the U.S. measles surveillance system is performing well. A variety of transmission chain sizes were detected, including isolated cases, suggesting that sustained measles transmission would be rapidly detected. However, the rapid increase in the number of reported measles cases during the first quarter of 2024 represents a renewed threat to elimination.

Most measles importations were cases among persons traveling to and from countries in the Eastern Mediterranean and African WHO regions; these regions experienced the highest reported measles incidence among all WHO regions during 2021–2022 ( 6 ). During November 2022–October 2023, the number of countries reporting large or disruptive outbreaks increased by 123%, from 22 to 49. Global estimates suggest that first-dose measles vaccination coverage had declined from 86% in 2019 to 83% in 2022, leaving almost 22 million children aged <1 year susceptible to measles ( 6 ).

As has been the case in previous postelimination years ( 7 ), most imported measles cases occurred among unvaccinated U.S. residents. Increasing global measles incidence and decreasing vaccination coverage will increase the risk for importations into U.S. communities, as has been observed during the first quarter of 2024, further supporting CDC’s recommendation for persons to receive MMR vaccine before international travel ( 4 ).

Maintaining high national and local MMR vaccination coverage remains central to sustaining measles elimination. Risk for widespread U.S. measles transmission remains low because of high population immunity; however, national 2-dose MMR vaccination coverage has remained below the Healthy People 2030 target of 95% (the estimated population-level immunity necessary to prevent sustained measles transmission) ( 8 ) for 3 consecutive years, leaving approximately 250,000 kindergarten children susceptible to measles each year ( 9 ). Furthermore, 2-dose MMR vaccination coverage estimates in 12 states and the District of Columbia were <90%, and during the 2022–23 school year, exemption rates among kindergarten children exceeded 5% in 10 states ( 9 ). Clusters of unvaccinated persons placed communities at risk for large outbreaks, as occurred during the central Ohio outbreak in 2022: 94% of measles patients were unvaccinated and 42% were hospitalized ( 10 ). Monitoring MMR vaccination coverage at county and zip code levels could help public health agencies identify undervaccinated communities for targeted interventions to improve vaccination coverage while preparing for possible measles outbreaks. As of March 28, 2024, a total of 97 confirmed measles cases have been reported in the United States in 2024, compared with a mean of five cases during the first quarter of each year during 2020–2023. Similar to cases reported during 2020–2023, most cases reported during 2024 occurred among patients aged <20 years who were unvaccinated or whose vaccination status was unknown, and were associated with an importation. Rapid detection of cases, prompt implementation of control measures, and maintenance of high national measles vaccination coverage, including improving coverage in undervaccinated populations, is essential to preventing measles and its complications and to maintaining U.S. elimination status.

Limitations

The findings in this report are subject to at least three limitations. First, importations might have been underreported: 4% of reported cases during the study period had no known source. Second, case investigations resulting in discarded measles cases (i.e., a diagnosis of measles excluded) are not nationally reportable, which limits the ability to directly evaluate the sensitivity of measles case investigations. However, surveillance remains sufficiently sensitive to detect isolated cases and outbreaks, and robust molecular epidemiology provides further evidence supporting the absence of sustained measles transmission in the United States. Finally, the date of first case report to a health department was not available for 35% of case investigations.

Implications for Public Health Practice

The U.S. measles elimination status will continue to be threatened by global increases in measles incidence and decreases in global, national, and local measles vaccination coverage. Because of high population immunity, the risk of widespread measles transmission in the United States remains low; however, efforts are needed to increase routine MMR vaccination coverage, encourage vaccination before international travel, identify communities at risk for measles transmission, and rapidly investigate suspected measles cases to maintain elimination.

Corresponding author: Adria D. Mathis, [email protected] .

1 Division of Viral Diseases, National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, CDC.

All authors have completed and submitted the International Committee of Medical Journal Editors form for disclosure of potential conflicts of interest. Stephen N. Crooke reports institutional support from PATH. No other potential conflicts of interest were disclosed.

* Elimination is defined as the absence of endemic measles virus transmission in a defined geographic area for ≥12 months in the presence of a well-performing surveillance system.

† https://emergency.cdc.gov/han/2024/han00504.asp

§ A confirmed measles case was defined as an acute febrile rash illness with laboratory confirmation or direct epidemiologic linkage to a laboratory-confirmed case. Laboratory confirmation was defined as detection of measles virus–specific nucleic acid from a clinical specimen using real-time reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction or a positive serologic test for measles immunoglobulin M antibody.

¶ Genotyping was performed at CDC and at the Vaccine Preventable Disease Reference Centers of the Association of Public Health Laboratories.

** 45 C.F.R. part 46.102(l)(2), 21 C.F.R. part 56; 42 U.S.C. Sect. 241(d); 5 U.S.C. Sect. 552a; 44 U.S.C. Sect. 3501 et seq.

†† MMR vaccine is not licensed for use in persons aged <6 months.

§§ At the time of this report, six measles outbreaks have ended, and one outbreak is ongoing. A measles outbreak is considered to be over when no new cases have been identified during two incubation periods (42 days) since the rash onset in the last outbreak-related case.

• Gastañaduy PA, Redd SB, Clemmons NS, et al. Measles [Chapter 7]. In: Manual for the surveillance of vaccine-preventable diseases. Atlanta, GA: US Department of Health and Human Services, CDC; 2023. https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/pubs/surv-manual/chpt07-measles.html
• Mathis AD, Clemmons NS, Redd SB, et al. Maintenance of measles elimination status in the United States for 20 years despite increasing challenges. Clin Infect Dis 2022;75:416–24. https://doi.org/10.1093/cid/ciab979 PMID:34849648
• Williams D, Penedos A, Bankamp B, et al. Update: circulation of active genotypes of measles virus and recommendations for use of sequence analysis to monitor viral transmission. Weekly Epidemiologic Record 2022;97(39):481–92. https://reliefweb.int/report/world/weekly-epidemiological-record-wer-30-september-2022-vol-97-no-39-2022-pp-481-492-enfr
• McLean HQ, Fiebelkorn AP, Temte JL, Wallace GS; CDC. Prevention of measles, rubella, congenital rubella syndrome, and mumps, 2013: summary recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). MMWR Recomm Rep 2013;62(No. RR-4):1–34. PMID:23760231
• World Health Organization. Measles: vaccine preventable diseases surveillance standards. Geneva, Switzerland: World Health Organization; 2018. https://www.who.int/publications/m/item/vaccine-preventable-diseases-surveillance-standards-measles
• Minta AA, Ferrari M, Antoni S, et al. Progress toward measles elimination—worldwide, 2000–2022. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2023;72:1262–8. https://doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.mm7246a3 PMID:37971951
• Lee AD, Clemmons NS, Patel M, Gastañaduy PA. International importations of measles virus into the United States during the postelimination era, 2001–2016. J Infect Dis 2019;219:1616–23. https://doi.org/10.1093/infdis/jiy701 PMID:30535027
• Truelove SA, Graham M, Moss WJ, Metcalf CJE, Ferrari MJ, Lessler J. Characterizing the impact of spatial clustering of susceptibility for measles elimination. Vaccine 2019;37:732–41. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.vaccine.2018.12.012 PMID:30579756
• Seither R, Yusuf OB, Dramann D, Calhoun K, Mugerwa-Kasujja A, Knighton CL. Coverage with selected vaccines and exemption from school vaccine requirements among children in kindergarten—United States, 2022–23 school year. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2023;72:1217–24. https://doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.mm7245a2 PMID:37943705
• Tiller EC, Masters NB, Raines KL, et al. Notes from the field: measles outbreak—central Ohio, 2022–2023. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2023;72:847–9. https://doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.mm7231a3 PMID:37535476

FIGURE . Confirmed measles cases, by month of rash onset (N = 338) — United States, January 1, 2020–March 28, 2024

Abbreviations: IgM = immunoglobulin M; rRT-PCR = real-time reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction; WHO = World Health Organization. * A case resulting from exposure to measles virus outside the United States as evidenced by at least some of the exposure period (7–21 days before rash onset) occurring outside the United States and rash onset occurring within 21 days of entering the United States without known exposure to measles during that time. † A case in a transmission chain epidemiologically linked to an internationally imported case. § A case for which an epidemiologic link to an internationally imported case was not identified, but for which viral sequence data indicate an imported measles genotype (i.e., a genotype that is not detected in the United States with a pattern indicative of endemic transmission). ¶ A case for which an epidemiologic or virologic link to importation or to endemic transmission within the United States cannot be established after a thorough investigation. ** Percentage is percentage of international importations. Four cases among persons who traveled to both the Eastern Mediterranean and African regions and one case in a person who traveled to both the Eastern Mediterranean and European regions were counted twice. †† Place of residence, sex, age or date of birth, fever and rash, date of rash onset, vaccination status, travel history, hospitalization, transmission setting, and whether the case was outbreak related. §§ Includes 65 cases among patients who received both positive rRT-PCR and positive IgM results. ¶¶ Percentage is percentage of total chains.

Suggested citation for this article: Mathis AD, Raines K, Masters NB, et al. Measles — United States, January 1, 2020–March 28, 2024. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2024;73:295–300. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.mm7314a1 .

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Vietnam Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

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Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Vietnam.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers of all ages traveling to Vietnam.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Japanese Encephalitis

Recommended for travelers who

• Are moving to an area with Japanese encephalitis to live
• Spend long periods of time, such as a month or more, in areas with Japanese encephalitis
• Frequently travel to areas with Japanese encephalitis

Consider vaccination for travelers

• Spending less than a month in areas with Japanese encephalitis but will be doing activities that increase risk of infection, such as visiting rural areas, hiking or camping, or staying in places without air conditioning, screens, or bed nets
• Going to areas with Japanese encephalitis who are uncertain of their activities or how long they will be there

Not recommended for travelers planning short-term travel to urban areas or travel to areas with no clear Japanese encephalitis season. 

Japanese encephalitis - CDC Yellow Book

Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine for US Children

CDC recommends that travelers going to certain areas of Vietnam take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip. Talk to your doctor about which malaria medication you should take.

Find  country-specific information  about malaria.

Malaria - CDC Yellow Book

Considerations when choosing a drug for malaria prophylaxis (CDC Yellow Book)

Malaria information for Vietnam.

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Rabid dogs are commonly found in Vietnam. However, if you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in Vietnam, rabies treatment is often available. 

Consider rabies vaccination before your trip if your activities mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.

Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include

• Campers, adventure travelers, or cave explorers (spelunkers)
• Veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers handling animal specimens
• Visitors to rural areas

Since children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animals, consider rabies vaccination for children traveling to Vietnam. 

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

• Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Schistosomiasis

• Wading, swimming, bathing, or washing in contaminated freshwater streams, rivers, ponds, lakes, or untreated pools.

Avoid bug bites

Chikungunya

• Mosquito bite
• Avoid Bug Bites
• Mosquito bite
• An infected pregnant woman can spread it to her unborn baby

Airborne & droplet

Avian/bird flu.

• Being around, touching, or working with infected poultry, such as visiting poultry farms or live-animal markets
• Avoid domestic and wild poultry
• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Vietnam, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Vietnam. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Some diseases in Vietnam—such as dengue, Zika, and filariasis—are spread by bugs and cannot be prevented with a vaccine. Follow the insect avoidance measures described above to prevent these and other illnesses.

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Vietnam include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Leptospirosis, a bacterial infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Vietnam. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Vietnam’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in some parts of Vietnam. If you are going to a risk area, fill your malaria prescription before you leave, and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Vietnam may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Vietnam, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

For information traffic safety and road conditions in Vietnam, see Travel and Transportation on US Department of State's country-specific information for Vietnam .

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

To call for emergency services while in Vietnam, dial 115 for an ambulance, 114 for the fire department, and 113 for the police. Write these numbers down to carry with you on your trip.

Learn as much as you can about Vietnam before you travel there. A good place to start is the country-specific information on Vietnam from the US Department of State

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Vietnam for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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