According to the ministry, Vietnam has so far reported 121 monkeypox infections including six fatalities. Most of the cases were found in HCM City and some central highlands and southern provinces of Lam Dong, Long An, Binh Duong, and Can Tho.

The ministry said that the disease has been transmitted in the community and may spread more during the changeable weather as it turns from winter to spring and as people gather for the Tet Lunar New Year holiday and spring festivals.

The Ministry of Health has classified monkeypox on the list of Group B infectious diseases.

The disease is transmitted between people through close contact with an infected person. Suspected symptoms of the disease include the sudden appearance of acute rashes in the form of fluid-filled or pus-filled blisters without an obvious cause. Once the disease is confirmed, patients should strictly adhere to healthcare professional guidance in care and treatment to minimise complications and follow infection prevention measures.

Most patients will recover after 10 to 14 days and stop spreading the disease after 21 days. However, the disease can cause serious complications, or even be life-threatening for immunocompromised people like those infected with AIDS, cirrhosis, or diabetes.

Source: Dtinews