Hanoi implements mask mandate for indoor public places
In light of a rapid surge in COVID-19 cases over the past five days, authorities in Hanoi have said residents must strictly adhere to mask-wearing guidelines established by the Ministry of Health.
Vice Chairman of the Hanoi People's Committee Vu Thu Ha inspects COVID prevention at Duc Giang General Hospital. (Photo: VNA)
Hanoi (VNS/VNA) - In light of a rapid surge in COVID-19cases over the past five days, authorities in Hanoi have said residents muststrictly adhere to mask-wearing guidelines established by the Ministry of Health.
The People's Committee said there had been apparent lapses incompliance among the population, leading to higher risks of transmission,especially in crowded, indoor places.
The measure covers a diverse array of locations, such as shoppingcentres, entertainment venues, and fitness facilities, and extends to bothemployees and patrons. Furthermore, it mandates mask-wearing for individualsusing public transport, including drivers and passengers alike.
Those attending crowded events or visiting popular touristdestinations must also adhere to the mask requirement.
In an effort to stem the rising tide of infections, the HanoiPeople's Committee has called upon local authorities to maintain vigilance andclosely monitor the evolving situation. Their guidance also emphasises theimportance of accelerating vaccination efforts and intensifying inspections toensure adherence to COVID-19 prevention protocols in relevant establishments.
The Hanoi Department of Health has been instructed to closelytrack the pandemic's progression and relay pertinent information to the citygovernment, ensuring the timely implementation of preventive measures. Thedepartment is also collaborating with the Ministry of Health to identifypotential new SARS-CoV-2 variants.
In anticipation of the upcoming holiday season, the HanoiDepartment of Information and Communications has been directed to workalongside the Department of Health and other relevant agencies. Their objectiveis to disseminate accurate information regarding the COVID-19 situation andencourage adherence to the Ministry of Health's "2K" message, whichpromotes the use of face masks and disinfection, particularly on publictransportation and during crowded events. Efforts will also be made to highlightthe benefits and efficacy of vaccines to persuade more people to getvaccinated.
Over the past five days, Hanoi has recorded the highest number ofdaily cases nationwide, averaging 96 infections per day. Among the hospitalisedpatients, 30 to 50 individuals are either elderly or have pre-existing medicalconditions.
At present, there are 566 documented COVID-19 patients in Hanoi.Of these, 299 individuals with mild symptoms are being monitored at home, whiletwo patients require mechanical ventilation./.
The number of COVID-19 cases has increased rapidly since the beginning of April, said Prof Phan Trong Lan, director of the Department of Preventive Medicine under the Ministry of Health (MoH), at a conference on the pandemic prevention and combat held on April 17 in Hanoi.
Thai health officials nationwide have been ordered to watch for new COVID-19 outbreaks and prepare medication and equipment for inpatients, in the wake of Songkran festivities.
Malaysian Health Minister Dr Zaliha Mustafa said there is no need to panic as the number of COVID-19 cases in the country is still under control and the number of deaths due to the pandemic is also still low, mostly involving the elderly and individuals with comorbidities.
Following an upward trend in the previous days, Vietnam recorded 2,159 new COVID-19 cases on April 19, a record high in the past six months, the Ministry of Health announced.
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After such a long time, the law has revealed many limitations, prompting the Ministry of Health (MoH) to gather opinions to amend the law to give more chances to thousands of patients every year.
Currently, cardiovascular specialists from the 108 Military Central Hospital are working alongside a team of Prof.Dr. Jan D. Schmitto, Deputy Director of MHH’s Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Transplantation and Vascular Surgery on clinical trials for MCS devices, implanted in heart failure patients either as a bridge to transplantation or as permanent treatment.
The centre not only serves residents living on the island, but also receives tens of thousands of visitors every year, according to Assoc Prof Dr Tang Chi Thuong, Director of the HCM CIty Department of Health.
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After more than three weeks of intensive treatment, the patient's pneumonia improved, breathing stabilised, sedation was reduced, and the breathing tube was removed. He is now conscious, able to eat orally, and in recovery.
Vice Chairman of the Hanoi People's Committee Vu Thu Ha inspects COVID prevention at Duc Giang General Hospital. (Photo: VNA) 
