Ho Chi Minh City faces double health threat as HFMD, dengue cases spike

Since the start of 2025, the city has recorded 6,711 HFMD cases—a 49-percent jump from the same period last year—according to the Ho Chi Minh City Center for Disease Control (HCDC).

Among them, 967 patients required hospitalization, marking a 15-percent increase. 

No deaths have been reported so far.

HFMD cases rise sharply

The uptick began in February and accelerated in mid-May. 

During the week of May 12 to 18, health authorities recorded 916 HFMD cases—up 40 percent from the four-week average. Hospitalizations rose 26 percent.

Eight of the city’s 22 districts saw significant increases, namely District 1, District 5, District 7, and District 12, as well as Binh Tan District, Tan Binh District, Binh Chanh District, and Thu Duc City -- a district-level unit.

HFMD is a contagious viral illness that spreads through the gastrointestinal tract and primarily affects children under five.

It is transmitted via contact with infected feces, saliva, blister fluid, or respiratory droplets—often through toys, utensils, and other shared objects.

HCDC is urging parents and caregivers to remain vigilant for symptoms such as fever, rash on hands and feet, mouth sores, and poor appetite. 

Suspected cases should be promptly reported and evaluated at healthcare facilities.

There is currently no vaccine for HFMD, so prevention hinges on hygiene. 

Frequent handwashing with soap, disinfecting toys and surfaces, and minimizing contact between infected and healthy children are the primary defenses.

Dengue fever cases surge 134 percent

Adding to public health concerns, dengue fever cases have more than doubled this year. 

As of May 18, Ho Chi Minh City had reported 7,690 cases, up 134 percent compared to the same period in 2024.

Severe cases accounted for 1.5 percent of total infections, or 112 patients.

Adults over 15 years old are seeing higher infection rates than children, with 1.5 times more cases reported in that age group.

HCDC warned that with the rainy season underway, dengue cases are likely to rise further in the coming weeks.

Health experts emphasize that prevention efforts must focus on eliminating breeding grounds such as standing water in containers, plant trays, and discarded tires.

In addition to vaccination, HCDC advises residents to take proactive measures against dengue fever: eliminate standing water to reduce mosquito breeding sites, use mosquito repellents, and seek prompt medical attention if symptoms arise.

Warning signs include high fever, petechiae spots, bleeding from the gums or nose, easy bruising, and, in pubertal girls, abnormal vaginal bleeding.