Vietnam has recorded over 32,000 dengue fever cases as of the end of July, with southern regions accounting for over 70% of the total, the Ministry of Health reported in an official dispatch to localities on 28/7. Ho Chi Minh City alone reported over 15,500 cases, a nearly 160% increase compared to the same period last year, including 10 fatalities.
Several southern provinces have also witnessed significant year-on-year increases: Ben Tre up 346%, Tay Ninh 274%, Long An 208%, and Dong Nai 192%. The number of severe cases in these areas has also multiplied compared to the previous year.
In Hanoi, cases doubled last week compared to the week prior, with numerous outbreak clusters exhibiting high mosquito infestation levels. Officials predict a continued rise in Hanoi's dengue cases due to the onset of the peak season, with frequent rain and humid weather creating ideal breeding conditions for mosquitoes.
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Dengue fever treatment at the Hospital for Tropical Diseases in Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: Quynh Tran |
Dengue fever treatment at the Hospital for Tropical Diseases in Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: Quynh Tran
Beyond dengue fever, the risk of concurrent outbreaks looms large with other infectious diseases like hand, foot, and mouth disease, influenza, Covid-19, and measles still circulating. Vo Hai Son, Deputy Director of the Preventive Medicine Department at the Ministry of Health, emphasized the potential for a major dengue outbreak in 2025 if localities fail to implement proactive preventive measures. The World Health Organization (WHO) has also warned that dengue is the fastest-spreading tropical disease and a "pandemic threat," particularly given the context of climate change, the El Nino phenomenon, rapid urbanization, and increased international trade.
Vietnam is considered a high-risk country for dengue fever and part of this "pandemic threat" due to a combination of factors. The country's hot and humid tropical monsoon climate provides an ideal breeding ground for Aedes mosquitoes (the disease vector), especially with climate change and El Nino causing prolonged heatwaves and erratic rainfall.
Rapid urbanization and high population density in major cities also contribute to mosquito breeding sites, increasing the risk of infection. Moreover, increased international travel and trade can introduce the virus from other affected regions, accelerating its spread.
Finally, public complacency and self-treatment often lead to delayed hospitalization, increasing the severity of cases and the risk of death.
For instance, Dr. Truong Huu Khanh, Standing Vice President of the Ho Chi Minh City Infectious Diseases Association, noted at a seminar on 26/7 that many individuals mistake dengue for the common cold, leading to self-treatment and inadequate monitoring. This results in late hospitalization and increased risk of severe complications. The period after the fever subsides is the most critical and requires close medical supervision, even for adults.
The disease can also have lasting effects such as fatigue, neurological dysfunction, and may require long-term rehabilitation, resulting in substantial medical expenses. The cost of dengue treatment varies depending on the length of hospitalization. Two weeks in intensive care typically costs between 150-200 million dong. Organ damage or secondary infections can further extend hospital stays.
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Dr. Truong Huu Khanh discusses dengue fever. Photo: Le Kien |
Dr. Truong Huu Khanh discusses dengue fever. Photo: Le Kien
Given the unpredictable nature and severe consequences of dengue, the Ministry of Health urges localities to proactively implement preventive measures. The most effective approach remains mosquito control, eliminating mosquito larvae, and avoiding mosquito bites. Dengue vaccination is a new proactive prevention method that can reduce cases and fatalities. Individuals should consult with their physicians for appropriate vaccination schedules based on their immunization history and previous dengue infections.
Le Nga
