Mr. Minh, suffering from a 39°C fever, phlegm-filled cough, and difficulty swallowing, was admitted to the hospital with respiratory failure. His breathing rate was 23 breaths per minute, and his SpO₂ fluctuated between 85% and 88%, significantly lower than the normal range of around 95%. His inflammatory and infection markers were elevated, and a PCR test confirmed a high Covid-19 viral load.

On 4/7, Doctor Doan Thi Hai Yen from the Department of Internal Medicine at Tam Anh General Hospital in Hanoi reported that the patient's Covid-19 had rapidly progressed to severe pneumonia and respiratory failure. Mr. Minh received oxygen support, a combination of antibiotics, corticosteroid anti-inflammatory medication, and fluid and electrolyte management. His pre-existing kidney failure and overall weakened state hampered his response to treatment.

A doctor from the Department of Internal Medicine examines Mr. Minh before his discharge. Photo: *Tam Anh General Hospital*

The nutrition team developed a specialized diet tailored to each stage of his recovery, closely monitoring his micronutrient levels and metabolic indicators throughout the treatment process. Due to his dementia and weakened cough reflex, he received respiratory rehabilitation using a vibration machine and daily passive exercises. The treatment plan was dynamically adjusted through collaboration between different medical specialties.

After approximately four weeks, Mr. Minh's fever subsided, lung function stabilized, kidney function improved, nutrition intake increased, coughing and expectoration became more effective, infection markers decreased, and he was discharged from the hospital.

To prevent Covid-19, elderly individuals and those with chronic illnesses should maintain preventive measures such as frequent handwashing, personal hygiene, and wearing masks in public. Proactive health monitoring is crucial, and if symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, nasal congestion, or difficulty breathing appear, seeking medical attention for examination and necessary testing is recommended. Complete vaccination, including booster shots for the elderly and high-risk groups, is essential. Rapid antigen and PCR tests for Covid-19 facilitate early detection and effective treatment, preventing severe complications.

Thanh Ba