Preparing a trip to Laos also means preparing properly from a health perspective. While the country does not present particularly high risks, a few precautions are necessary to travel with peace of mind in this Southeast Asian country.
Recommended vaccinations before travelling to Laos
No vaccination is officially required to enter Laos (except yellow fever if you are coming from an endemic country). However, several vaccines are strongly recommended by medical professionals:
- Hepatitis A: recommended for all travellers to Laos, regardless of the length of stay
- Hepatitis B: recommended for extended stays or higher-risk activities
- Typhoid: recommended, especially if staying in rural areas
- Tetanus-Diphtheria-Polio: check that your booster is up to date
- Rabies: to consider for long stays or adventurers in remote areas
- Japanese encephalitis: recommended for stays of more than 4 weeks in rural areas, especially during the rainy season
Consult your doctor or an international vaccination centre at least 6 weeks before departure to tailor these recommendations to your profile and itinerary in Laos.
Malaria in Laos
Malaria is present in Laos, mainly in rural and forested areas, and less so in major cities such as Vientiane and Luang Prabang. If your itinerary takes you to the far north (Phongsali, Luang Namtha) or remote forest areas, antimalarial prophylaxis is generally recommended.
Discuss with your doctor the prophylaxis best suited to your specific itinerary. In addition, anti-mosquito measures are essential: DEET-based repellent, covering clothing at sunset, and a mosquito net at night.
Dengue: vigilance all year round
Dengue is present in Laos and there is no preventive treatment—only protection against mosquito bites is effective. Unlike malaria, dengue-carrying mosquitoes tend to bite during the day. Apply repellent regularly and cover your arms and legs.
Water and food: essential precautions
Never drink tap water in Laos. Bottled water is available everywhere at a low price. Avoid ice cubes of uncertain origin and unwashed raw vegetables in small restaurants. That said, Lao cuisine is delicious and restaurants frequented by locals are generally safe—use common sense and trust your instincts.
First-aid kit for Laos
Bring a first-aid kit including:
- Anti-diarrhoeal medication and oral rehydration salts
- Fever reducer and pain relief
- Antihistamine (bites, allergies)
- Skin antiseptic and plasters
- High-SPF sun protection
- Mosquito repellent
- Any personal prescription medication (in sufficient quantity)
Medical care in Laos
Medical facilities in Laos are limited outside Vientiane. In the event of a serious problem, evacuation to Bangkok (Thailand) is often necessary. It is essential to take out travel insurance including medical repatriation before you leave—this is indispensable. In Vientiane, the Australian Clinic and Mahosot and Mittaphap hospitals treat tourists.
In summary: travelling to Laos and health
With a few simple precautions, Laos is a safe and accessible destination. Our agency Asia Safari has been organising trips to Laos since 2002 and can point you towards local medical resources if needed. Request a quote for your Laos itinerary—we take care of all the practical details for you.
Travel with peace of mind with local support. Asia Safari advises you on health precautions and organises your tailor-made trip to Laos. Contact our French-speaking agency for a personalised quote.
