Vietnam’s Vigorous Response to Monkeypox Virus Amid WHO Public Health Emergency of International Concern
In recent months, Vietnam has ramped up its efforts to prevent and control the spread of the monkeypox virus, following the World Health Organization’s (WHO) declaration of the disease as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). The Ministry of Health has issued a series of directives aimed at provincial and city people’s committees, hygiene and epidemiology institutes, Pasteur institutes, and hospitals specializing in infectious diseases. These measures are part of a comprehensive strategy to contain the virus and mitigate its impact on public health. The WHO’s declaration on August 14 underscores the global seriousness of the situation, necessitating immediate and coordinated action.
The urgency of the situation is reflected in the Ministry of Health’s call for increased hygiene standards and rigorous monitoring for potential cases. Provinces and cities across Vietnam have been instructed to be on high alert, with healthcare workers receiving proper training and equipment to handle any outbreaks. Communication and collaboration between institutions are deemed crucial for effectively preventing and controlling the spread of the virus. This proactive stance by the Ministry of Health highlights the importance of vigilance and preparedness in the face of a potential public health crisis.
The monkeypox virus, which can be observed under a microscope, poses a significant threat not only to physical health but also to economic stability. The WHO’s declaration serves as a stark reminder of the need for global cooperation in preventing and containing disease outbreaks. The Ministry of Health has emphasized the importance of remaining vigilant and taking necessary precautions to prevent a widespread outbreak. Actions taken now will have a profound impact on the spread and severity of the virus, making swift and coordinated efforts essential.
One of the key measures implemented by the Ministry of Health is the strict surveillance at border crossings and healthcare facilities. This directive comes in response to the alarming increase in monkeypox cases reported in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and neighboring countries. The DRC has recorded approximately 15,600 cases and 537 deaths in the past two months, with the outbreak spreading beyond Africa to countries like Sweden and Pakistan. The Ministry of Health in Vietnam is working on contingency plans to address potential outbreaks, highlighting the importance of early detection and rapid response.
Monkeypox is a viral illness transmitted through close contact, with symptoms including flu-like signs and pus-filled blisters. The disease can cause severe complications, particularly in immunocompromised individuals, children, pregnant women, and the elderly. While vaccines are available in developed countries, low-income nations struggle to secure enough supplies, making it challenging to eradicate the disease. Vietnam reported its first case of monkeypox in October 2022, and since then, there have been over 68 reported cases, including six deaths. Many of the fatalities had a history of HIV, underscoring the vulnerability of certain populations.
The Ministry of Health’s efforts to prevent further spread of the disease include securing more vaccines and enhancing surveillance at border gates and medical facilities. Training sessions for healthcare workers at all levels on monitoring, prevention, and care for monkeypox have been advised. Provinces and cities are expected to report suspected or confirmed cases to the national surveillance system, ensuring a coordinated and timely response. Institutes of hygiene and epidemiology are closely monitoring the situation and providing support to affected areas, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to disease control.
The Ministry of Health’s proactive measures also extend to communication efforts aimed at disseminating prevention and control guidelines. This includes updating prevention and response plans, having necessary resources such as medicine, supplies, equipment, personnel, and funding readily available. The PHEIC declaration by the WHO serves as a warning of the potential risk of monkeypox spreading to other countries, making it imperative for Vietnam to stay ahead of the curve. The current dominant strain of monkeypox in the DRC outbreak, clade lb, has been identified in four neighboring countries and two countries outside Africa, further emphasizing the need for vigilant monitoring and control measures.
Vietnam’s health ministry has also issued orders for strict control to prevent the spread of monkeypox, especially given the disease’s origin in the Democratic Republic of Congo and its subsequent spread to neighboring countries. Local authorities and major hospitals have been requested to ramp up efforts in prevention and control, including early detection and minimizing the number of cases and deaths. HIV/AIDS prevention and control measures must also be taken at various healthcare facilities, reflecting the interconnected nature of public health challenges.
The Ministry of Health’s comprehensive strategy includes enhancing surveillance and detection at border gates and medical facilities, ensuring that healthcare workers receive training on prevention, treatment, and control of monkeypox. Provinces and cities are required to report suspected or confirmed cases to the national surveillance system, enabling a coordinated and effective response. The emphasis on early detection and rapid response is crucial in preventing a widespread outbreak and minimizing the impact on public health.
The global spread of monkeypox is being closely monitored, with the United States recording 33,191 cases, Canada 1,553 cases, and the United Kingdom 3,952 cases as of June 2024. The Ministry of Health, Wellness, and Elderly Affairs has declared a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC) for monkeypox, highlighting the global impact of the disease. The newly discovered clade 1 strain of monkeypox is of significant concern due to its higher transmissibility compared to clade 2, making it imperative for countries to take proactive measures to contain the virus.
The Ministry of Health, Wellness, and Elderly Affairs urges the public to remain vigilant and follow guidelines to reduce the risk of infection. Currently, WHO has approved two vaccines for the prevention of monkeypox, with vaccination recommended for close contacts of confirmed cases and travelers to affected areas in Africa. Mass vaccination campaigns are not deemed necessary at this stage, but the Ministry will continue to closely monitor the situation and provide updates as new information becomes available. The public is advised to follow updates from the Ministry for the latest information and health alerts.
The situation serves as a reminder of the importance of global health preparedness and response to emerging health threats. The Ministry of Health’s proactive stance in addressing the potential threat of monkeypox underscores the need for vigilance, coordination, and swift action. By enhancing surveillance, improving communication, and securing necessary resources, Vietnam aims to prevent a widespread outbreak and protect public health. The WHO’s declaration of a global health emergency serves as a call to action for countries worldwide to collaborate and take decisive measures to contain the spread of monkeypox.