Dengue Fever During Travelling In Vietnam

Definition And Symptoms

Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne viral infection caused by the dengue virus (DENV) and transmitted primarily by the Aedes aegypti mosquito. Also called “breakbone fever” due to intense muscle and joint pain, dengue symptoms typically begin 3–14 days after a bite and include:

• Sudden high fever (up to 40 °C)

• Severe headaches, often behind the eyes

• Muscle, joint, and bone pain

• Mild skin rash, appearing 2–5 days after fever onset

• Nausea, vomiting, and swollen glands

• In some cases, mild bleeding (e.g., nose or gums) and easy bruising

Most people recover in about a week, but about 5% can progress to severe dengue fever—an emergency marked by bleeding, plasma leakage, or dangerously low blood pressure.

The Dengue Fever Situation In Vietnam

Dengue fever during travelling in Vietnam remains a growing threat. In 2024, the whole country recorded 114.906 cases of dengue fever. It is endemic and unpredictable across Vietnam year-round. Different regions have different risks:

Southern Vietnam, which includes Ho Chi Minh City, Binh Duong, and the Mekong Delta, is among the regions where dengue fever outbreaks are common. The hot, humid climate combined with rapid urbanization creates an ideal breeding environment for mosquitoes.

Central Vietnam, including provinces such as Quang Ngai, Da Nang, and Khanh Hoa, is also facing a growing number of dengue fever cases. Beaches and coastal areas attract large numbers of tourists, further complicating outbreak management.

North Vietnam is the least affected area compared to the South, however, Hanoi and its surroundings also record cases of dengue fever, especially during the rainy season.

The Highlands are the provinces of Dak Lak, Gia Lai, and Kon Tum are mountainous areas where dengue fever is present, especially in rural areas where mosquitoes tend to breed in stagnant water reservoirs.

How To Protect Yourself Against Dengue Fever In Vietnam

Although dengue fever is a serious illness, it can be avoided by following proper preventive measures. Here are some practical tips to protect yourself, whether you are a resident or a tourist in Vietnam:

Use Mosquito Repellents

Repellents containing DEET are particularly effective at keeping mosquitoes away. It is recommended to apply these repellents to exposed skin, especially when going out in the morning or evening, when mosquitoes are most active.

Wear Long Clothing

Long clothing, especially long-sleeved shirts and pants, can help protect skin from mosquito bites, especially during early morning and evening hours. Light colors are preferable because they are less attractive to mosquitoes.

Avoiding Risky Areas

If you are in a high-risk area, avoid areas with heavy vegetation or near stagnant water bodies. Additionally, areas with high population density should be approached with caution during periods of high mosquito activity.

Check Accommodation Locations

Hotels and homes should be equipped with mosquito nets or air-conditioned rooms to limit contact with mosquitoes. If you're staying in a rural village, make sure your accommodation is well-screened.

Eliminate Sources Of Stagnant Water

If you live in a high-risk area, remove any sources of standing water around your home, such as flower pots, old tires, or unused tanks. This prevents mosquitoes from finding places to lay their eggs.

Time Your Visit Strategically

You should choose your travel time carefully. March to May offers lower dengue fever risk compared to July–September.

Dengue Treatment: What To Do In Case Of Illness

If you experience symptoms of dengue fever, such as fever, muscle and joint pain, rash, or bleeding, it is important to seek immediate medical attention. Treatment for dengue fever primarily focuses on relieving symptoms, as there is no specific antiviral treatment. Patients should drink plenty of fluids and take medication to lower fever.

 In severe cases, dengue fever can lead to complications, such as severe dengue fever or shock syndrome, which can be fatal if not treated in time.

Closing Remarks

Dengue fever remains a serious public health threat in Vietnam. However, with proactive measures—vaccination, repellents, protective clothing, environmental awareness—you can significantly lower your risk. Combine this with travel awareness and rapid response to symptoms, and you can travel confidently and safely.

 To fully enjoy your stay in Vietnam while staying protected against dengue fever, follow the prevention tips mentioned above and stay informed about the epidemiological situation in the different regions.


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