Ms. Huyen, Mr. Hieu's 29-year-old daughter, explained that as a teacher with a family, her busy schedule leaves little time to visit her parents in Lam Dong. She had repeatedly encouraged her parents to get vaccinated at a local center, but they hadn't gone. The reason being their small coffee farm keeps them constantly busy, and they tend to be complacent about their health, seeking medical attention only when sick. Whenever Mr. Hieu or his wife experienced a cough or fever, they dismissed it as a minor ailment and self-medicated with over-the-counter drugs.
"My parents have underlying health conditions, so if they get sick, their condition could easily worsen and require hospitalization. Since I live far away, it would be difficult for me to care for them. Prevention is always better than cure. These vaccines are my gift to my family this Vu Lan season. I hope my parents stay healthy so they can enjoy time with their family and grandchildren," Ms. Huyen shared.
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Mr. Hieu was accompanied by his daughter for flu and pneumococcal vaccinations at the VNVC Vaccination System. Photo: Hoang Duong |
Mr. Hieu was accompanied by his daughter for flu and pneumococcal vaccinations at the VNVC Vaccination System. Photo: Hoang Duong
Similarly, 35-year-old Ms. Ha Anh from Ha Dong ward, Hanoi, brought her parents and mother-in-law to the VNVC Ha Dong vaccination center for the shingles vaccine. She explained that over a month ago, her mother-in-law developed shingles near her eyebrow and temple. Thanks to prompt hospital treatment, her eyes were unaffected. However, even after the wound scabbed over, she still experienced frequent pain and insomnia. Ms. Ha Anh researched and learned that the vaccine can prevent the disease and its recurrence, so she decided to get her whole family vaccinated.
Meanwhile, 60-year-old Ms. Phuong from TP HCM rode her motorbike to VNVC for a flu shot. She had received the flu vaccine in 2023 but missed her booster shot in 2024. This time, her daughter proactively booked a flu shot for her.
"My daughter works for a foreign company and is very busy, so she couldn't find the time to take me. But she contacted VNVC and pre-arranged everything, so all I had to do was show up for the injection," Ms. Phuong proudly shared, showing her daughter's thoughtful text messages.
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Ms. Phuong proudly displays her daughter's caring text messages. Photo: Hoang Duong |
Ms. Phuong proudly displays her daughter's caring text messages. Photo: Hoang Duong
Doctor Le Thi Minh Nguyet, Medical Manager of the VNVC Vaccination System, said that nearly 240 VNVC centers nationwide regularly witness stories of children bringing their parents for vaccinations, especially during the Vu Lan season. Many opt for vaccine packages to ensure their parents and grandparents don't miss any necessary doses.
Doctor Nguyet pointed out that in 2024, the average life expectancy in Vietnam reached 74.7 years, high compared to countries with similar living standards. However, the number of years lived with illness is significant, impacting quality of life. With proper care and attention, seniors can extend their lifespan and enjoy more healthy, active years, free from illness, and continue contributing to society.
"Vaccination is one way to provide a shield to help the elderly live happier and healthier lives," Doctor Nguyet stated.
According to Doctor Nguyet, the vaccination procedure for seniors at VNVC includes reviewing medical history, conducting a screening examination, monitoring for at least 30 minutes post-vaccination, and providing instructions for home monitoring for at least 48 hours. Seniors can prioritize vaccines such as flu, pneumococcal, shingles, and dengue fever, or choose vaccines based on their previous vaccination history.
In addition to vaccinations, Doctor Nguyet advised families on caring for seniors' health: engaging in suitable daily exercise, getting enough sleep according to individual needs, avoiding stress, preventing falls and traffic accidents, and taking medication as prescribed to manage any underlying health conditions.
Hoa Binh
