Covid-19 epidemic returns to many Asian countries, Ministry of Health recommends epidemic prevention

Covid-19 belongs to group B, the average incubation period is 4 days (illustrative photo)

In the 28 days to April 27, the world recorded more than 25,000 Covid-19 cases, down nearly 57% compared to the same period last year. The number of deaths also decreased by nearly 38%. However, some Asian countries are witnessing a resurgence of the epidemic, especially Thailand.

From the beginning of the year to May 10, Thailand recorded more than 53,600 cases, of which Bangkok alone had more than 16,700 cases. Notably, in the week from April 27 to May 3, the number of infections in Bangkok jumped to more than 14,300 cases, including 2 deaths.

Several provinces such as Chon Buri, Nonthaburi and Rayong also recorded hundreds of new cases. The increase in Covid-19 cases in Thailand is related to the increase of the XBB.1.16 sub-variant in Thailand.

The Thai Ministry of Health has confirmed that Covid-19 is endemic and most cases have only mild symptoms. The Omicron variant XBB.1.16 was discovered in 2023, has a fast spreading rate but there is currently no evidence of causing more severe illness.

WHO has also not issued any new global warnings related to this variant.

In Vietnam, since the beginning of the year, there have been 148 scattered cases recorded in 27 provinces and cities, with no deaths. Ho Chi Minh City has the highest number of cases with 34 cases, followed by Hai Phong, Hanoi , Nghe An, and Bac Ninh.

The other 19 localities have recorded only one to two cases each. In the past three weeks, the number of infections has increased slightly, averaging about 20 cases per week, but no concentrated outbreaks have occurred.

The Ministry of Health said that although the number of cases and deaths globally is decreasing, Vietnam is still at risk of recording new infections in the coming time, especially after the April 30 and May 1 holidays when a large number of people travel and interact. However, the possibility of severe cases is low because the current virus variant has not shown strong virulence.

Faced with this situation, the Ministry of Health has directed to strengthen epidemic surveillance, be ready to receive and treat cases of the disease, especially those at high risk such as pregnant women, the elderly and people with underlying diseases.

The Ministry also called on people to wear masks in public places and on public transport, limit crowded gatherings, maintain hand hygiene and improve physical condition through a reasonable diet and exercise.

When experiencing suspected symptoms such as fever, cough, and difficulty breathing, people should go to a medical facility for timely examination and treatment. People who have just returned from countries with a high number of cases should also proactively monitor their health.

Vietnam will continue to coordinate with the World Health Organization to closely monitor the epidemic and take appropriate response measures.

TH (according to VTC News)

Source: https://baohaiduong.vn/dich-covid-19-tro-lai-nhieu-nuoc-chau-a-bo-y-te-khuyen-cao-phong-dich-411544.html