“Dengue fever, rubella, poliomyelitis, and avian influenza are all at risk of becoming epidemics,” said Le Truong Giang, Deputy Director of the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Health, during a meeting with health centers on October 13.
According to a report from the Center for Preventive Medicine, the mosquito population density has doubled compared to normal levels, with a risk of further increases in the near future. Consequently, dengue fever cases have also risen, with approximately 200 hospitalizations each week, predominantly in districts such as Tan Binh, Tan Phu, and Hoc Mon. In reality, for every 1-2 hospitalized dengue cases, there are likely 5-10 undetected cases in the community.
The rubella outbreak is also showing signs of resurgence. Evidence includes multiple workers from two companies in different areas—Cu Chi and Thu Duc—contracting rubella in late August and early October. “This is the season when the weather is favorable for the spread of this disease. If there are cases of rubella in the community, the risk of widespread transmission is high and difficult to control,” Mr. Giang noted.
Many experts believe that avian influenza is still in a latent stage. However, scientific assessments suggest that an outbreak of avian influenza is inevitable in the near future.
To minimize the outbreak of these diseases, the city’s health sector has implemented several preventive measures. Specifically: increased mosquito spraying efforts; at the end of October, the Department of Health will collaborate with community organizations to launch a city-wide sanitation campaign to eliminate potential mosquito breeding sites; health officials will conduct educational sessions to raise awareness about prevention and recognition of rubella symptoms for workers; and encourage high-risk individuals to receive vaccinations.
Additionally, Ho Chi Minh City has acquired 14 kg of Tamiflu, enough to treat 14,000 individuals in the event of an avian influenza outbreak.
My Lan
