The Ministry of Health has raised warnings about the possible emergence of respiratory diseases in Vietnam as the number of acute respiratory infections from influenza A (H5/N1), and COVID-19 in regional countries such as China, Malaysia, Singapore, and Cambodia is increasing considerably.

The warnings come after China’s National Health Commission earlier reported clusters of undiagnosed pneumonia in children in the northern part of the country. It later found that the outbreak was mainly caused by the flu virus, as well as other pathogens, such as the rhinovirus which causes the common cold, and pneumonia which causes fevers and coughing.

Meanwhile, Malaysia and Singapore confirmed a steep rise in COVID-19 cases, with statistics showing infections are up by 50% to 100% compared to the previous week. Authorities attributed the rise in infections due to factors such as increasing demand for travel during the year-end festive season, and waning population immunity. 

Moreover, the Cambodian Ministry of Health also said that Cambodia has recorded six human infections of H5N1 this year, including three deaths. It called on people not to eat sick or dead poultry, while thoroughly cooking poultry before eating.

Amid the increasing number of cases of respiratory diseases, the Vietnamese healthcare watchdog recommended that people regularly wash their hands with soap and water. Other efforts include covering their mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, preferably with a cloth or handkerchief to reduce the spread of respiratory secretions, as well as limiting close contact with animals or wildlife.

They are also advised to maintain environmental and personal hygiene, keep the body warm, and engage in physical exercise.

Source: VOV