Ho Chi Minh City recorded 34,664 acute respiratory infections in the first week of October, more than 64% above the previous four-week average. Health experts warned that seasonal conditions favour the spread of viruses and urged residents to take preventive measures.
The increase has been linked to seasonal weather changes and students returning to school, which together create conditions for respiratory pathogens to spread quickly.
According to the Ho Chi Minh City Centre for Disease Control, influenza viruses are among the fastest-rising pathogens, with 151 positive samples recorded in a single week. Influenza A is the dominant strain, with A/H1N1pdm09 found in 116 samples, or nearly 77% of the total.
The HCDC continues citywide surveillance of pathogens that cause acute respiratory infections. It collects samples at 29 healthcare facilities, including hospitals and regional medical stations, and closely monitors clusters of cases in the community.
Continuous analysis of case trends and virus strains helps the health sector identify risks early, forecast transmission and recommend interventions suited to current conditions.
Older adults and people with underlying health conditions should take extra care because they face a higher risk of severe illness and serious complications if infected.
Residents are advised to wash their hands regularly with clean water and soap. When coughing or sneezing, they should cover their mouth and nose with a tissue or elbow to curb the spread of virus-laden respiratory droplets.
People with symptoms suggestive of an infection, such as fever, cough, sore throat or a runny nose, should wear a face mask, limit close contact with others and promptly seek medical advice and treatment.
Annual flu vaccination, in line with health authorities’ recommendations, helps maintain immunity and protect individuals and families, particularly high-risk groups such as older adults and people with underlying health conditions.
Sources: VietnamPlus / Vietnam News Agency
