Don't be passive or surprised in the work of preventing and fighting Covid-19

BHG - Recently, the world has recorded an increase in the number of Covid-19 cases in some countries such as Brazil, the UK and some Asian countries. In Vietnam, from the beginning of 2025 to now, 148 cases of Covid-19 have been recorded in 27 provinces and cities, with no deaths.

In the face of the re-emergence of the Covid-19 epidemic, Ha Giang Electronic Newspaper reporters interviewed Ms. Nguyen Thi Thanh Huong, Director of the Provincial Center for Disease Control, about the work of reviewing and updating the province's plan for admission and treatment of Covid-19 patients.

Director of the Provincial Center for Disease Control Nguyen Thi Thanh Huong answered an interview with Ha Giang Electronic Newspaper

PV: Could you please tell us about the current Covid-19 epidemic situation in the province, especially with the risk of new variants appearing?

Comrade Nguyen Thi Thanh Huong: Currently, the Covid-19 epidemic situation in the province is basically under control, with no outbreaks recorded in 11/11 districts and cities. However, in the context of the world recording an increase in cases in a number of countries and the emergence of new variants, the risk of the disease entering and spreading in the province is still latent. The province has recorded a number of sporadic cases, but all were detected early and handled promptly; the patients have recovered and been discharged from hospital, with no deaths.

Reporter: What specific measures has the Provincial Center for Disease Control been implementing to proactively respond to the possibility of a resurgence of the Covid-19 epidemic, sir?

Comrade Nguyen Thi Thanh Huong: Following the direction of the Ministry of Health and the Provincial Department of Health, we have reorganized the rapid response team, and carefully reviewed necessary supplies and equipment such as masks, antiseptic solutions, disinfectants, etc. In addition, the Center closely coordinates with District and City Health Centers to monitor and promptly detect suspected cases in the community as well as at medical examination and treatment facilities. When a suspected case is detected, we will investigate, isolate and handle it in accordance with the regulations of the Ministry of Health.

In addition, the Center has advised the Department of Health to develop epidemic prevention and control plans suitable for the new situation, including: directing hospitals to update plans for admission and treatment of Covid-19 patients; fully preparing isolation areas, medical equipment and human resources. The goal is to avoid being passive and surprised in any situation. Special attention is paid to protecting high-risk groups such as the elderly, people with underlying diseases, pregnant women and seriously ill patients in special treatment areas such as intensive care, cardiovascular, and artificial kidney.

PV: Could you please tell us the official name of this new variant and its typical symptoms?

Comrade Nguyen Thi Thanh Huong: The new variant is currently being closely monitored by the World Health Organization, and its name may change over time and classification. One of the recent notable variants is XBB.1.5 or JN.1. In particular, the JN.1 variant is currently circulating in many countries and is classified by WHO as a variant of concern. Typical symptoms are similar to previous variants, including: fever, cough, sore throat, fatigue, loss of taste or smell; some cases may have diarrhea or rash. The new variant is more transmissible, so preventive measures need to be strengthened.

PV: Given the new developments of the Covid-19 epidemic, what specific recommendations does the Provincial Center for Disease Control have for people to proactively prevent and effectively fight the epidemic?

Comrade Nguyen Thi Thanh Huong: We are stepping up communication work to raise awareness of disease prevention and control in the community, emphasizing the strict implementation of the "2K" message (masks and disinfection). People should wear masks when going to crowded places, on public transport; wash hands regularly, gargle, cover mouth when coughing or sneezing... These are small habits but have great significance in limiting the risk of spreading the virus.

Along with that, medical facilities are required to ensure environmental hygiene, arrange departments reasonably, create clean and patient-friendly spaces; strictly implement case reporting in accordance with regulations of the Ministry of Health. At the same time, strengthen monitoring, early detection of cases; recommend Covid-19 vaccination, especially for high-risk groups.

We also encourage people to improve their health by eating and resting properly, and keeping their homes clean and airy. For those returning from epidemic areas, especially from countries with high numbers of cases, we recommend proactively monitoring their health and protecting themselves and the community.

PV: Thank you very much, comrade!

Hong Cu (performed)

Source: https://baohagiang.vn/xa-hoi/202505/khong-de-bi-dong-bat-ngo-trong-cong-tac-phong-chong-covid-19-1d63faa/