COVID-19 cases rise in Hanoi, but health officials say there’s no cause for alarm

According to the Hanoi Center for Disease Control (HCDC), the capital recorded 185 COVID-19 cases across 76 communes and wards last week, up from 96 cases in 49 areas the week prior. 

This brings the total caseload for 2026 to 588, a sharp drop compared to the 2,131 infections recorded by this time last year. 

Neither period saw any fatalities.

The HCDC noted a broader upward trend in respiratory infections, including ones caused by adenovirus. 

Officials attribute the seasonal bump to increased summer travel, extracurricular events, and crowded public gatherings, warning that cases could continue to climb in the coming weeks.

Dr. Dao Huu Than, deputy director of the HCDC, reassured the public during an interview with Tuoi Tre (Youth) online newspaper on Tuesday that the uptick is completely expected.

"COVID-19 is no longer a novel disease, as it has been circulating for years and is now endemic, much like the seasonal flu," Dr. Than explained. 

While periodic spikes are natural, he noted that large-scale outbreaks on the level of the early pandemic are highly unlikely. 

Hanoi has detected no new variants or unusual epidemiological changes.

Hospitals are seeing a minor increase in visits as well. 

Dr. Nguyen Trung Cap, deputy director of the National Hospital for Tropical Diseases, said the facility is currently treating about 15-20 COVID-19 patients. 

However, he echoed that there is no indication of a dangerous shift.

"We are observing an upward trend, but there is no evidence to suggest this is an unusual or alarming development," Dr. Cap said. 

He noted that while a rise in community transmission typically leads to more severe cases, particularly among vulnerable groups, current hospitalizations remain low.

Health officials advise residents to stay vigilant without panicking.

Members of the public are encouraged to follow standard preventive measures, such as wearing masks in crowded spaces or medical facilities, maintaining hand hygiene, and avoiding close contact with anyone displaying symptoms.

Older adults and individuals with underlying conditions are urged to take extra precautions. 

Anyone experiencing severe or persistent respiratory symptoms should seek medical evaluation promptly.

In addition to COVID-19, Hanoi is actively monitoring other seasonal illnesses, including dengue fever, hand, foot, and mouth disease, and whooping cough, which may also see increases in the months ahead.