Travel Vaccines and Advice for Laos
The natural beauty of Laos is unparalleled. Although the country is often overshadowed by tourist-laden Thailand, it offers no lack of must-see sights.
From dense, lavish forests and limestone caves to jungle rivers and windy mountain roads, Laos is a paradise. Whether travellers are exploring the Nam Ha national protected area or traversing the infamous Mekong River there is adventure at every turn.
But, Laos is more than just the outdoors. With well developed cities and wonderful eateries, there is an option for every traveller.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Laos?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Laos
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Laos?
What Is the Climate Like in Laos?
How Safe and Secure Is Laos?
Is the Food Safe in Laos?
Pak Ou Caves in Laos
What Should I Take to Laos?
Canadian Embassy in Laos
Do I Need Vaccines for Laos?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Laos. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Laos: typhoid, cholera, hepatitis A, polio, yellow fever, Japanese encephalitis, rabies, hepatitis B, influenza, pneumonia, meningitis, chickenpox, shingles, Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) and measles, mumps and rubella (MMR).
See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:
- Typhoid –
Food & Water –
Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. - Cholera –
Food & Water –
Cholera may be present in some regions of Laos. Vaccination is recommended for aid works and those travelling after severe flooding or to areas with inadequate sanitation services. - Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travellers. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Recommended for some travellers to the region. Single adult booster recommended. - Yellow Fever –
Mosquito –
Required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. - Japanese Encephalitis –
Mosquito –
Recommended depending on itinerary and activities. May be given to short- and extended-stay travellers, recurrent travellers and travel to rural areas. Present throughout country. Most cases from June to September. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Recommended for travellers to most regions. - Influenza –
Airborne –
Vaccine components change annually. - COVID-19 –
Airborne –
Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. - Pneumonia –
Airborne –
Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. - Meningitis –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. - Chickenpox –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. - Shingles –
Direct Contact –
Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended. - TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) –
Wounds & Airborne –
Only one adult booster of pertussis required. - Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) –
Various Vectors –
Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.
See the table below for more information:
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for Laos |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Typhoid | Food & Water | Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. |
| Cholera | Food & Water | Cholera may be present in some regions of Laos. Vaccination is recommended for aid works and those travelling after severe flooding or to areas with inadequate sanitation services. |
| Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travellers. |
| Polio | Food & Water | Recommended for some travellers to the region. Single adult booster recommended. |
| Yellow Fever | Mosquito | Required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. |
| Japanese Encephalitis | Mosquito | Recommended depending on itinerary and activities. May be given to short- and extended-stay travellers, recurrent travellers and travel to rural areas. Present throughout country. Most cases from June to September. |
| Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Recommended for travellers to most regions. |
Routine Vaccinations for Laos |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Influenza | Airborne | Vaccine components change annually. |
| COVID-19 | Airborne | Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. |
| Pneumonia | Airborne | Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. |
| Meningitis | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. |
| Chickenpox | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. |
| Shingles | Direct Contact | Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. |
| TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) | Wounds & Airborne | Only one adult booster of pertussis required. |
| Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) | Various Vectors | Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended. |
Specific Vaccine Information
- Typhoid – Typhoid, a bacterial infection, is primarily transmitted through contaminated food, water, or direct contact with infected people. Vaccination is a key preventive measure, recommended for travellers to endemic regions and those at risk due to occupation.
- Hepatitis A – Hepatitis A is a highly contagious liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus, typically spreading through contaminated food or water, or close contact with an infected person. Symptoms can include fatigue, nausea, stomach pain, and jaundice. The hepatitis A vaccine is a safe and effective shot that provides immunity against the virus, usually given in two doses.
- Japanese Encephalitis – Japanese encephalitis is a mosquito-borne viral infection affecting the brain. It is found primarily in Asia. The Japanese encephalitis vaccine, administered through injections, effectively prevents the disease. It is recommended for travellers to endemic areas and residents in high-risk regions.
- Rabies – Preventing rabies involves avoiding contact with infected animals and ensuring timely vaccination. The rabies vaccine is a critical tool, offering protection through post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) and preemptive vaccination for high-risk individuals like travellers.
- Hepatitis B – Hepatitis B, a liver infection transmitted through infected fluids, can be prevented through safe practices and the hepatitis B vaccine. The vaccine prompts the immune system to produce antibodies, offering robust and long-lasting protection against the virus.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are contagious diseases transmitted via respiratory droplets and touch. Preventing these illnesses is primarily achieved through vaccination, using the MMR vaccine. It’s administered in two doses and provides immunity against all three viruses.
Malaria in Laos
Antimalarials are recommended for travellers to all regions of Laos. But, transmission is rare in Vientaine, antimalarials may not be recommended for travel exclusively to that city. Chloroquine and mefloquine resistance is present in the country. Atovaquone, doxycycline and tafenoquine are suggested as antimalarials if travelling to the region. Consult with a travel health specialist on which antimalarial will best fit your needs.
Japanese encephalitis vaccines are mandatory for those living in rural areas, hiking or camping. Those that plan to stay longer than a month should consider getting vaccinated.
Although there is no risk of yellow fever in Laos, the government requires proof of yellow fever vaccination if you are travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever. This does not include Canada.
To find out more about these vaccines, see our vaccinations page. Ready to travel safely? Book your appointment either call or book online now.
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Laos
Prevent Bug Bites in Laos
When bitten by bugs, clean the area with soap and water, refrain from scratching, and use over-the-counter remedies. For severe reactions or tick bites, consult a healthcare professional promptly. Following PHAC guidelines can help prevent and manage bug bites effectively.
Food and Water Safety in Laos
Safeguard your health while abroad by consuming cooked and hot foods, opting for bottled or sealed drinks, and practicing proper hand-washing. Limit your exposure to risky local dishes. To prevent travellers’ diarrhea, maintain these precautions: eat carefully prepared foods, avoid untreated water, sanitize your hands, consider probiotics, and exercise caution with unfamiliar cuisine.
Altitude Sickness in Laos
When ascending to high altitudes, beware of altitude sickness, which can cause headaches, nausea, and dizziness due to reduced oxygen levels. Preventive measures include gradual ascent, staying hydrated, and possibly using medications like acetazolamide. If symptoms appear, swift descent to lower elevations, rest, and medical evaluation are essential.
Infections To Be Aware of in Laos
- Avian/Bird Flu – Avian flu, also known as bird flu, is a contagious virus that affects birds and can spread to humans. Preventing it involves vaccination of poultry, strict biosecurity on farms, safe handling and cooking of poultry, surveillance for outbreaks, and raising public awareness.
- Dengue – Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne illness with symptoms ranging from mild to severe, including high fever and pain. The PHAC emphasizes prevention through avoiding mosquito bites by using repellents and removing standing water. Treatment focuses on symptom relief and hydration, avoiding certain pain relievers that can worsen bleeding risks.
- Schistosomiasis – Schistosomiasis is a waterborne disease caused by parasitic worms. Prevention includes avoiding activities in contaminated water and using protective measures like clothing. Recognizing symptoms early, such as fever and abdominal pain, and seeking medical assistance promptly can lead to timely diagnosis and intervention, reducing health risks.
- Zika – Zika, transmitted by infected mosquitoes and through sexual contact, can result in birth defects. Preventing Zika involves using insect repellent, safe sexual practices, and eliminating mosquito breeding sites.
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Laos
Yes, a valid passport and visa are required for Laos.
Laos Entry Requirements |
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| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Laos? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | |
|
| Business Visa | |
|
| Vaccinations | |
|
Sources: Embassy of Laos and Canadian Travel and Tourism
The export of local currency is not permitted and if travellers are carrying more than $2,500 USD, they must declare so.
Visit the Canadian Travel and Tourism website for more information on entry and exit requirements.
What Is the Climate Like in Laos?
Laos has a tropical climate characterized by regular monsoon activity. Monsoons are most common during the rainy season from March through October, but varies based on locale.
Most of Laos sees a considerable amount of sun and heavy rainfall which can lead to uncomfortable amounts of humidity. But, mountainous regions have cooler and more temperate weather year-round.
- Pakse – Located in the southern region, it has a tropical savanna climate. Temperatures are particularly high in the months before monsoon season, which begins in March.
- Vientiane – Nestled in the northern-central region of the country, Vientiane is the capital of Laos. The city’s rainy season is from May through September with drier months from November through February.
- Luang Prabang – Located in the northern region of the Laos, Luang Prabang at its coldest will only drop to around 69 degrees Fahrenheit. The wettest month is in August.
How Safe and Secure Is Laos?
When travelling in Laos, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and avoid suspicious people or areas. Respect the local customs and laws, like dressing modestly and not showing public displays of affection.
Keep your important documents in a safe place and don’t carry too much cash or valuable items with you. If you must travel at night, use a reputable transportation company and avoid travelling alone. Don’t buy drugs because it’s illegal, and the penalties can be severe.
Stay informed about any safety concerns or warnings from your embassy or local authorities and follow their recommendations. By using common sense and being respectful, you can enjoy a safe and enjoyable trip to Laos.
Is the Food Safe in Laos?
Laos boasts a large selection of unique cuisine. Most of this food is unfamiliar to the Canadian palate, including Sai Uah (sausage) and Larb (a minced meat salad).
While most of these Asian delicacies are okay for consumption, take notice of how and where they are cooked. Diseases such as cholera, hepatitis A and typhoid spread in contaminated food and water.
Delicious-smelling street food, where meats are often cooked in the open-air, can be tempting. But, research which eateries are known for delivering high-quality options.
Pak Ou Caves in Laos
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Laos is known for hundreds of years of ancient Buddhist traditions. Along the Mekong, one of the most infamous rivers in all Asia, lie the Pak Ou Caves. These Buddha caves, known as Tham Phun and Tham Ting, are accessible only by boat. The caves are carved into the side of large rock figures and are a unique way to discover of the rich religious history of Laos.
What Should I Take to Laos?
If you are going to travel to Laos, there are some important things to pack. Laos is a hot and humid country, so bring lightweight and loose-fitting clothes made of breathable fabrics, like cotton. It is also a good idea to pack comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain.
Laos is home to mosquitoes, so bring insect repellent to protect yourself from insect-borne diseases. Bring sunscreen with a high SPF to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Laos uses different power sockets, so you may need to bring a travel adapter.
It is also a good idea to bring any necessary prescription medications and a basic first-aid kit with essentials such as band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers. Many places only accept cash, so bring enough cash to cover your expenses. Consider bringing a travel guidebook to help you navigate Laos and learn more about the country’s culture, history, and attractions. Finally, don’t forget to pack a camera or smartphone to capture your memories.
Canadian Embassy in Laos
It is good to know exactly where the Canadian Embassy or consulates are located when travelling. Keep the address written down in case you have a legal problem, you lose your passport, or you want to report a crime. Keep a copy of your passport with you in case you lose the original.
Canadian Embassy Vientiane
KM4, Thadeua Road, Watnak Village,
Sisattanak District,
Vientiane, Laos
Tel: +856 (0) 21 35 38 34
Still have questions? Schedule an appointment by calling or booking online now.
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Laos
“With professionalism, compassion and a very pleasant smile on her face, the nurse/doctor knew a lot more about Laos than I would have expected. Very well done.”
“Firstly we were not kept waiting passed our appointment. Which I interpret as efficient. The RPN seemed extremely knowledgeable and answered all our questions about Laos. Her technique in administering the injections was professional and painless. Paperwork was provided about all the medications needed.”
“Really good and knowledgeable nurse. Her technique of administering my vaccines for Laos was flawless and it did not hurt a bit. Good experience.”
“I found this Travel clinic after a brief Internet search. Unlike other travel clinics in my area, Passport’s website tended to be a little more informative and professional looking, which drew me to their Oakville clinic. Upon arrival, I found the clinic to be almost brand new and spotlessly clean. The attending Registered Nurse was very knowledgeable and personable and was able to answer all my questions with regard to my trip to Laos. Given my experience at the Oakville clinic, I would not hesitate to recommend their services to other local area residents.”
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