Vietnam ministry instructs hospitals to bolster readiness amid COVID-19 surge
Hanoi, May 20 (UNI) Vietnam's Ministry of Health has instructed hospitals nationwide to bolster preparedness for a potential rise in COVID-19 cases, directing them to ensure the availability of isolation wards, medical supplies, and reinforced infection control measures—particularly those targeting airborne transmission in clinical settings.
Healthcare facilities have also been told to prioritise the protection of vulnerable groups, including the elderly, pregnant women, and patients with chronic or severe conditions, Vietnam News reported.
Since the start of 2024, Vietnam has confirmed 148 COVID-19 cases across 27 provinces and cities. While no deaths or large-scale outbreaks have been recorded, health officials have noted a gradual uptick in infections over the past three weeks.
The Ministry also referenced regional trends, highlighting that Thailand has logged more than 53,600 cases and 16 deaths between 1 January and 10 May, largely driven by the XBB.1.16 Omicron subvariant.
Hospitals have been specifically instructed to reinforce infection prevention protocols, with a particular focus on measures to curb respiratory transmission. This aims to minimise the chances of the virus spreading within medical examination and treatment areas, protecting both patients and healthcare workers.
The ministry has also underscored the critical need to implement robust measures to safeguard high-risk individuals, including pregnant women, those with pre-existing health conditions, patients suffering from severe illnesses, and the elderly, who are known to be more vulnerable to severe outcomes from the virus.
While Vietnam's health department classified COVID-19 as an endemic disease on Monday, officials have cautioned that a further uptick in cases is possible in the coming weeks, particularly in popular tourist hotspots such as Da Nang as the peak travel season gets underway.
The Ministry of Health has noted that a rise in milder infections could also be seen following the recent public holidays at the end of April and the beginning of May, which saw increased travel and larger gatherings, according to Tuoi Tre News.
As part of its 2025 infectious disease control strategy, the health department has urged local agencies to intensify public awareness campaigns, encouraging consistent adherence to national health guidelines.
These recommendations include the wearing of face masks in public spaces, on public transport, and within healthcare facilities; frequent handwashing with soap and water or hand sanitiser; avoiding large gatherings where possible; maintaining regular physical activity and a balanced diet; and promptly seeking medical attention should symptoms such as fever, cough, or shortness of breath develop. Travellers returning from regions with high COVID-19 infection rates are also being advised to closely monitor their health.
The Ministry of Health affirmed its commitment to working closely with the World Health Organization (WHO) to continuously monitor the global situation and implement timely and effective response strategies to protect public health.
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