Ho Chi Minh City activates proactive measures to prevent new variants of Covid-19

According to the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Health , Omicron XEC is not a new variant, but it needs to be closely monitored. This strain has been recorded worldwide since June 2024 and is classified by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a low-risk variant that needs to be monitored (VUM). However, in the face of unpredictable developments of the global Covid-19 epidemic, the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Health assigned the Ho Chi Minh City Center for Disease Control (HCDC) to be the focal point for monitoring the epidemic's developments in the city and the world. Strengthen monitoring of cases, pathogens, unusual events, etc. to make early forecasts and promptly advise on intervention solutions.

In coordination with the National Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology, the Pasteur Institute of Ho Chi Minh City, and the Oxford University Clinical Research Unit (OUCRU) to collect samples for testing to identify virus variants from outbreaks and severe cases and monitor the spread. At the same time, implement a sustainable epidemic control plan for the period 2023 - 2025, focusing especially on protecting high-risk groups such as the elderly and people with underlying diseases.

In addition, organize training and guide medical facilities to properly implement professional procedures for Covid-19 prevention according to the instructions of the Ministry of Health . Strengthen communication at public places, tourist attractions, shopping centers, etc. to raise awareness of personal disease prevention (wearing masks, washing hands, going to medical facilities when having symptoms, etc.).

The Ho Chi Minh City Department of Health requires medical facilities in the area to review and update their plans for admission and treatment of Covid-19. Proactively arrange human resources, medicines, equipment and medical supplies. Hospitals must re-organize training on the process of diagnosing, treating and controlling Covid-19 infection according to the Ministry of Health's guidelines. Strengthen infection control measures, prevent infection to minimize the spread of disease in hospitals, especially strengthen the protection of patients in high-risk groups (such as pregnant women, people with underlying diseases, the elderly, etc.), intensive care units, cardiovascular, artificial kidney, surgery, etc. Strengthen supervision of compliance with hand hygiene and compliance with wearing masks for all people entering and leaving the hospital.

In case of receiving a patient with severe Covid-19 or a serious illness due to Covid-19 complications, it is necessary to proactively consult and transfer the patient to the Hospital for Tropical Diseases for continued treatment, paying attention to ensuring the patient's safety before and during the transfer process.

THANH SON

Source: https://www.sggp.org.vn/tphcm-kich-hoat-cac-bien-phap-chu-dong-phong-chong-bien-the-moi-cua-covid-19-post796254.html