Dengue fever continues to pose a significant threat in Vietnam, with a surge in cases reported in the capital city of Hanoi during the month of October. Since the beginning of the year, Hanoi has recorded a total of 17,974 cases, with certain districts being particularly affected by the disease. In response, local health authorities have launched campaigns to improve sanitation and eliminate mosquito breeding sites. They are also urging the public to take preventive measures to protect themselves from mosquito bites. Dengue fever is a year-round concern in Vietnam, with the highest number of cases occurring during and after the rainy season. In 2022, Vietnam reported over 367,000 cases, highlighting the ongoing public health concern.
Dengue fever is caused by four types of the dengue virus, and individuals can develop lifelong immunity to one type while remaining susceptible to the others. Repeat infections can lead to more severe forms of the disease, such as dengue hemorrhagic fever. Health authorities emphasize the importance of avoiding mosquito bites and eliminating standing water to prevent the spread of the virus. If symptoms appear within two weeks of exposure to affected areas, seeking medical attention is crucial. It is worth noting that the use of aspirin or ibuprofen should be avoided if dengue fever is suspected, as these medications can worsen bleeding tendencies.
In a significant development, Vietnam has joined Japanese dengue vaccine trials, offering hope in the fight against dengue. The vaccine has shown initial efficacy against all four types of the dengue virus and is suitable for both adults and children. However, further trials are needed to fully assess its effectiveness. Vietnam has a strong track record in vaccine production and clinical trial management, and their participation in these trials demonstrates their commitment to addressing the dengue crisis.
Dengue fever is a global health threat, with approximately 40% of the world’s population residing in areas at risk of infection. It is one of the fastest-spreading mosquito-borne diseases and causes thousands of deaths each year. In Vietnam alone, there have been over 93,800 cases and 26 deaths recorded as of October. The situation in Hanoi is particularly concerning, with nearly 18,000 cases reported in 2023, more than triple the number from the previous year. The increasing cases in Hanoi and Vietnam’s involvement in vaccine trials underscore the urgency of addressing this public health crisis. Health officials are working tirelessly to combat the outbreak while also hoping for breakthroughs in vaccine development to protect vulnerable populations and halt the spread of the disease.