COVID-19 still under control in Vietnam amid rising cases in Thailand

Ho Chi Minh City reported the highest COVID-19 infection number, at 34, followed by Hai Phong with 21 cases, Hanoi with 19 cases, Bac Ninh with 14, Nghe An with 17, Quang Ninh with six, Bac Giang and Binh Duong with four each, and 19 other provinces each reporting one to two cases.

There have been no recorded outbreaks, but a slight increase in weekly cases has been observed over the past three weeks, averaging 20 cases per week.

The Ministry of Health notes that globally, the numbers of COVID-19 cases and deaths are trending downward.

However, the period that saw a sharp increase in COVID-19 infections in Thailand coincides with the incubation period following this country’s traditional New Year festival in mid-April. 

Therefore, the rise in COVID-19 cases may likely be due to increased gatherings and the spread of subvariant XBB.1.16.

In Vietnam, COVID-19 is considered an endemic disease. 

Because of high travel and public movement during the Reunification Day (April 30) and International Workers’ Day (May 1) holiday, there is a possibility of a rise in cases in the coming period.

However, severe infections are not expected to increase significantly, as the current virus variants are less likely to cause severe symptoms.

The XBB.1.16 subvariant, which emerged in 2023, spreads rapidly but currently shows no evidence of causing more serious illness. 

The World Health Organization has issued no new global warnings regarding COVID-19.

The Ministry of Health has strengthened surveillance and monitoring of the COVID-19 situation and enhanced disease prevention and control measures at medical facilities and in communities.

Hospitals are prepared to admit, treat, and care for patients, especially high-risk groups such as pregnant women, people with underlying conditions, and the elderly, to prevent fatalities.

To proactively prevent COVID-19, the Ministry of Health calls on people to wear face masks in public places, on public transport, and at healthcare facilities; avoid unnecessary gatherings; and frequently wash hands with clean water and soap or sanitizer.

Residents are also advised to maintain physical exercise and eat a balanced diet, as well as seek medical attention immediately if experiencing symptoms such as fever, cough, or difficulty breathing

Travelers coming from countries with high numbers of COVID-19 cases should closely monitor their health to protect themselves, their families, and close contacts.

The Ministry of Health will continue working with the World Health Organization to closely monitor the global COVID-19 situation and implement effective prevention and control measures.

Rising COVID-19 cases in Thailand

In the 28 days leading up to April 27, the world recorded 25,463 new COVID-19 cases, plunging 56.9 percent, and COVID-19-related deaths decreased by 37.9 percent compared to the previous 28 days.

Brazil reported the highest number with over 7,000 cases, followed by the United Kingdom with over 5,000 cases.

In Thailand, from May 1 to 10, there were 53,676 recorded COVID-19 cases and 16 deaths. 

Bangkok accounted for the highest number of cases with 16,723 and two deaths. 

Other provinces such as Chon Buri reported 1,177 infections, Nonthaburi, 866, and Rayong, 553.

From May 4 to 10, new cases dropped to 12,453.

The surge in COVID-19 cases in Thailand is linked to the spread of the XBB.1.16 subvariant.

According to Thailand’s Ministry of Health, although COVID-19 cases have recently risen, the public is advised not to worry excessively as the disease is now endemic in the nation and most cases show mild symptoms.