Hanoi, Vietnam – As Vietnam approaches its peak summer tourism season and enters the rainy period, health authorities have issued a heightened alert for infectious diseases, specifically targeting the rising spread of dengue fever, hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD), and COVID-19. The Ministry of Health (MoH) made the announcement on May 25, emphasizing growing concerns about disease transmission given the surge in tourist arrivals and the favorable conditions for vector-borne diseases during the monsoon season. Local authorities nationwide have been urged to prioritize proactive prevention measures and implement comprehensive control strategies.

The MoH's proactive stance reflects a recognition of the diverse transmission methods of these three major health threats. Unlike COVID-19 and HFMD, which primarily spread through respiratory droplets and secretions from infected individuals, dengue fever is a mosquito-borne illness. While dengue does not transmit directly from person to person, authorities are particularly concerned about the impending rainy season, which creates ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes.

Current Disease Landscape and Trends

According to MoH statistics, COVID-19 has seen over 640 confirmed cases across 39 provinces and cities this year. Hanoi recorded the highest number with 153 cases, followed by Hai Phong (138), Ho Chi Minh City (80), and Quang Ninh province (46). Notably, no COVID-19 related deaths have been reported. While the overall number of cases represents an 83.7% decrease compared to the same period last year, there has been a concerning acceleration in the rate of new infections over recent weeks.

A significant development in the COVID-19 landscape is the detection of a new variant, 'NB.1.8.1,' in Ho Chi Minh City on May 24. This variant has been predominantly spreading in China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan, raising concerns about its potential impact on Vietnam's public health.

Beyond COVID-19, dengue fever and hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) continue to show a consistent upward trend. In Ho Chi Minh City, HFMD cases surged to 916 last week, marking a 40% increase compared to the average of the preceding four weeks. Dengue fever, though endemic in tropical and subtropical climates and occurring year-round, has emerged as a major public health threat in Vietnam, with continuous fatalities reported over the past three years. This underscores the need for robust control measures, especially during the rainy season.

Preparedness and Response Strategies
In response to the escalating threat, the MoH has directed all levels of healthcare facilities to enhance their preparedness and response capabilities. A primary focus is on minimizing fatalities through systematic medical treatment. To avoid overwhelming healthcare infrastructure, plans are being developed for patient distribution based on severity, ensuring that severe cases receive appropriate care while milder cases are managed at lower-level health facilities. Support for these grassroots health facilities is also being prioritized to strengthen the overall healthcare system's capacity.

Provinces prone to flooding during the rainy season have been instructed to establish rapid response systems. This includes ensuring adequate staffing, stockpiling essential medicines, and securing necessary medical equipment to quickly address potential outbreaks and provide timely care to affected populations.

Furthermore, the MoH has issued comprehensive public health recommendations to curb the spread of these infectious diseases:

For COVID-19 and HFMD: Emphasizing diligent handwashing practices at home and in schools, advising the use of face masks in public places, and recommending limiting visits to crowded areas.
For Dengue Fever: Calling for intensified efforts to minimize mosquito bites. This includes eliminating stagnant water sources, which serve as mosquito breeding grounds, and promoting the use of mosquito nets and window screens. These measures are crucial in breaking the transmission cycle of dengue.
The current alert highlights Vietnam's commitment to safeguarding public health amidst the challenges posed by these prevalent infectious diseases, especially as the nation braces for the heightened risks associated with the summer and rainy seasons. Continued vigilance and adherence to preventive guidelines will be crucial in mitigating potential outbreaks.