Health

Q: I've gotten accustomed to bringing some over-the-counter medicine with me that is not available here on the local market, such as immodium, Advil cold and sinus, and extra strength Advil. What is available there?

A: It’s all available, but brands may be different. You must check the quality before you buy from a chemist/pharmacy. Many over the counter medicine is from China and it is not always safe. Please ask the nursing staff if you have any questions. It is best to stock up on your favorite medicines from home. 

For prescription medication, there are clinics here with English-speaking doctors. They can write prescriptions for you, and some have their own pharmacies that distribute medicines. Depending on the prescription, you might be able to get three months at a time. One clinic in Tay Ho is Raffles Medical Center, which accepts our school's insurance.

Q: Are the dentists OK, or should we visit one before we come?

A: Westcoast Dental, One Dental and Peace Dental Clinic are dental clinics that have been recommended by people here. Westcoast Dental is in Tay Ho and located inside the Syrena Shopping Centre. They have English-speaking dentists and are very good with anxious dental patients.

Q: In regards to shots before you come, there are a number that are non compulsory but recommended. Which ones do you think are good to have?

A: The HR office, the UNIS health office, or your own family doctor will be able to give you advice here. You might want to see a tropical medicine specialist for the latest information.

There have been outbreaks of Japanese Encephalitis here in Hanoi in late 2014. It is worth discussing this with your doctor, as this is a course of vaccinations, and you may need to confirm that Hanoi has the same strain of vaccine as you are getting in the country you are in. Or you can wait until you get here and start the course. You may want to get the series of rabies vaccinations - there are lots of dogs.