The second full rehearsal for the national day parade, held at Ba Dinh square on 24/8, drew large crowds. Doctor Ha Anh Duc, director of the Medical Examination and Treatment Management Department (Ministry of Health), warned that large events like these carry potential health risks such as heatstroke, acute illnesses, and crowd crush. Careful preparation is crucial for personal well-being at such events.
Dr. Duc emphasized the importance of thorough preparation, especially for families with elderly people and children. He advised attendees to participate only if they feel well and to seek assistance from officials immediately if they experience any health issues. If necessary, they should leave the crowded area.
Elderly individuals and those with underlying health conditions should consider finding a suitable viewing spot or watching the event on television or listening on the radio. Those with chronic illnesses should adhere to their treatment plans and ensure they take their medications as prescribed.
Anyone experiencing symptoms like dizziness, lightheadedness, shortness of breath, heart palpitations, chest pain, or cold sweats should move to a well-ventilated area and notify medical personnel. In emergencies, avoid pushing and shoving; follow instructions and find the nearest exit. Move with the flow of the crowd, avoid going against or diagonally across it, and try to leave the central crowded area as quickly as possible.
If caught in a crush, place both hands in front of the chest to protect the lungs and rib cage. If you fall, curl up in a fetal position to minimize the risk of being trampled on the chest. Avoid lying face down or face up.
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People hold national flags while waiting for the parade near Ba Dinh square. Photo: Ngoc Thanh |
People hold national flags while waiting for the parade near Ba Dinh square. Photo: Ngoc Thanh
Doctor Nguyen Ngoc Uyen from the Emergency Department of the 108 Military Central Hospital noted that people often panic or react incorrectly when encountering someone who suddenly faints, stops breathing, has cardiac arrest, or is suspected of having a stroke. Basic first aid knowledge is therefore essential.
Fainting is often related to low blood pressure, heart problems, or hypoglycemia, with symptoms including sudden loss of consciousness but quick recovery, while pulse and breathing remain normal. In such cases, lay the person on their back and raise their legs 30-45 cm to increase blood flow to the brain and heart. Loosen tight clothing, avoid putting pressure on the chest, and do not give them anything to drink or any medication until they regain consciousness. Gently turn their head to the side to prevent choking, and call emergency services (115) if they don't wake up within 1-2 minutes.
Dr. Duc stated that the Ministry of Health has mobilized thousands of medical personnel, forming hundreds of teams stationed in various areas to support the A80 event. Medical tents are set up for initial first aid, triage, and transferring patients to medical facilities if necessary. People are encouraged to install the A80 app on their smartphones to easily locate medical stations.
Le Nga
