What vaccines do I need for Laos?

Recommended by the CDC: Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Hepatitis B, Rabies, Japanese Encephalitis, Malaria prophylaxis.

Is tap water safe to drink in Laos?

Tap water is not safe to drink in Laos. Drink bottled or treated water throughout your trip, including in resort areas.

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Southeast Asia

Laos Travel Health

Reviewed by Alexander Webber, Chief Epidemiologist · Updated 2026-08

Laos presents moderate to high health risks for travelers, particularly in rural and forested areas. Malaria transmission occurs throughout most of the country, with the highest risk in the southern provinces along the Mekong River. Foodborne and waterborne illnesses are common, and dengue fever poses a year-round risk with peaks during the rainy season from May to October. Healthcare infrastructure is limited outside of Vientiane, making medical evacuation insurance essential.

Food Safety: High Risk Tap Water: Unsafe Malaria Risk Present

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Vaccines for Laos

CDC Recommended

Hepatitis A
Typhoid
Hepatitis B
Rabies
Japanese Encephalitis
Malaria prophylaxis

Source: CDC Travelers' Health — Laos

Malaria Risk

Malaria risk is present throughout the country, especially in rural and forested areas. P. falciparum and P. vivax both circulate; multidrug-resistant P. falciparum has been reported along the borders with Myanmar and Cambodia. No malaria risk in Vientiane city.

Food and Water Safety

High Risk Tap water: not safe to drink

Drink only commercially bottled or properly boiled water; avoid ice unless confirmed safe. Eat only fully cooked foods served hot; avoid raw salads, unpeeled fruits, and street food prepared in unsanitary conditions.

Key Health Tips for Laos

Take prescription malaria prophylaxis consistently; consult a travel medicine provider for the appropriate drug given resistance patterns in your specific itinerary.
Use DEET-containing insect repellent and permethrin-treated clothing day and night to reduce risk of dengue, malaria, and Japanese encephalitis.
Avoid contact with dogs and other animals due to endemic rabies; if bitten or scratched, seek medical care immediately for post-exposure prophylaxis.
Do not swim in freshwater rivers or lakes as schistosomiasis and leptospirosis are present, particularly in the Mekong and its tributaries.
Obtain comprehensive travel health insurance that includes medical evacuation, as quality hospital care is only available in Vientiane.

Disease Risks in Laos

Official Resources

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