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Feeling under the weather while exploring Da Nang? Don’t panic. Whether it’s a sudden stomach bug or something more serious, getting sick on holiday is never fun — but you’re not alone. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to take care of your health while traveling in Da Nang.
Understanding Da Nang’s Healthcare System
Da Nang is one of Vietnam’s most popular coastal cities and a growing hub for international travelers. It offers a mix of public and private healthcare options.
Public vs. Private Hospitals
- Public hospitals are more affordable but tend to be crowded, and English may not be widely spoken.
- Private clinics and hospitals cater more to tourists and expats, with shorter wait times and English-speaking staff. These are often preferred for non-emergency care.
Emergency Medical Care
If something serious happens, it’s important to know where to go.
Essential Emergency Numbers
- Vietnamese emergency services: 115
- Police: 113
- Fire: 114
How to Call an Ambulance in Da Nang
Dial 115 and ask for an ambulance. If you’re worried about the language barrier, it’s often quicker to take a taxi directly to a private hospital.
When to Visit the ER vs. a Clinic
- Go to the ER if it’s a serious injury or condition.
- Try an urgent care clinic for minor injuries, fevers, or non-emergency issues.
Pharmacies & Medication: What You Need to Know
Pharmacies are widely available in Da Nang, and many are open 24/7 in tourist areas. Some medications that require prescriptions at home might be available over-the-counter here — but always speak to a medical professional first.
Look for pharmacies with “Nhà Thuốc” on the sign. Some chains like Pharmacity are more likely to have English-speaking staff.
Looking for local medical advice?
What to Do if You’ve Got Travel Insurance
If you’re covered by travel insurance, you’ll usually need:
- Copies of your passport
- Your insurance policy number
- Doctor’s note or receipt for the visit
Always check your policy before you travel, and keep digital copies of important documents handy.
Language Barriers
Here are a few phrases that might help:
- “I need a doctor” = “Tôi cần bác sĩ”
- “It hurts here” = “Tôi đau ở đây”
- “Can you speak English?” = “Bạn có nói tiếng Anh không?”
Or, skip the stress and use Air Doctor to connect directly with an English-speaking doctor.
How to Avoid Getting Sick in Da Nang
Here’s what to do to avoid getting sick in Da Nang.
Common Illnesses for Travelers
- Heat exhaustion
- Stomach upsets (often food- or water-related)
- Minor injuries from motorbikes or hiking
Is the Tap Water Safe?
No — don’t drink tap water in Da Nang. Stick to bottled or filtered water. That includes brushing your teeth!
Food Safety Tips
- Avoid raw or undercooked food.
- Stick to busy street stalls (they’re more likely to be fresh).
- Wash your hands regularly — especially before meals.
Healthcare Tips for Pregnant Travelers & People with Pre-Existing Conditions
If you’re pregnant or have chronic conditions like asthma or diabetes, it’s a good idea to:
- Bring enough medication for your trip.
- Visit a private hospital for checkups or emergencies.
- Have a list of your conditions and any allergies translated into Vietnamese (or keep it in your phone).
Finding an English-Speaking Doctor in Da Nang
Let’s be honest — it’s hard to find trusted doctors in a foreign country. You don’t want to just Google and guess.
That’s where Air Doctor comes in. With our platform, you can:
- Find local, trusted, English-speaking doctors
- Book appointments in a few taps
- Access care in person or via video consult
Getting Help Beyond Healthcare
Your embassy or consulate can assist you in the case of:
- Lost passports
- Major medical emergencies
- Connecting you with trusted hospitals
Recap: What To Do If You Get Sick in Da Nang
- For emergencies, call 115
- Visit private clinics for quick, English-speaking care
- Use Air Doctor to book verified local doctors
- Always drink bottled water
- Don’t ignore your symptoms — take care of yourself early
About Air Doctor
With the Air Doctor app in your pocket, you can access medical care and receive expert medical guidance anywhere you travel.
Air Doctor offers a wide range of benefits, including:
- A global network of over 20,000 multi-lingual doctors and specialists
- Choice of clinic, at-home (hotel), and video consultations
- Healthcare access in 90 countries
- 24/7 multi-lingual support
- Transparent pricing and reviews
- Most common medical specialties, including GPs, pediatricians, gynecologists, and cardiologists
FAQs
Da Nang doesn’t have a specific illness it’s known for, but like much of Southeast Asia, travelers often experience tummy bugs or dehydration due to heat and food sensitivity.
Drink bottled water, stay cool, wash your hands often, and avoid dodgy street food. If you’re doing outdoor activities, pace yourself in the heat.
Yes—especially in rainy season. Use repellent, wear long sleeves in the evening, and consider mosquito nets or coils.
