In a bold assertion, health officials in Hanoi claim that infectious diseases are effectively under control, despite a noticeable uptick in cases of measles and hand, foot, and mouth disease this year. But here's where it gets controversial: while the numbers have risen, authorities suggest that increased surveillance, vigorous vaccination campaigns, and proactive public health initiatives have played pivotal roles in managing these outbreaks.
According to Hanoi's Department of Health, there has been a significant rise in both hand, foot, and mouth disease and measles compared to the same timeframe in 2024. However, officials are quick to highlight that these increases have not led to any widespread outbreaks, which is a crucial distinction.
This year alone, Hanoi has reported a total of 6,262 cases of dengue fever across nearly every ward and commune—125 out of 126. This represents a 28% decrease from the previous year, a drop attributed to continued mosquito control efforts and timely case detection. In contrast, the city has seen a dramatic spike in hand, foot, and mouth disease cases, reaching 6,015—more than double the previous year's figures. Fortunately, no fatalities have been linked to this illness. Similarly, measles cases have surged to 4,484, resulting in one death.
In addition to these diseases, there were smaller reports of other infectious illnesses, including 34 cases of whooping cough, 27 instances of tetanus, nine cases of streptococcal infection associated with pigs (one of which was fatal), four cases of meningococcal disease, and three cases of Japanese encephalitis.
To combat these challenges, health authorities have enhanced surveillance both in healthcare facilities and within local communities, with a particular focus on dengue fever and hand, foot, and mouth disease. This initiative aims to ensure prompt investigation and containment of any new cases or clusters that may arise.
Efforts to control mosquito populations have been intensified in areas identified as high-risk. These strategies include campaigns aimed at eliminating standing water where mosquitoes breed, as well as targeted insecticide spraying to eradicate adult mosquitoes. Such measures are vital in preventing the spread of both dengue fever and chikungunya.
The city's Centre for Disease Control actively monitors mosquito populations and breeding sites, particularly in areas recently affected by outbreaks, which allows for swift action when needed. The health sector is also collaborating closely with veterinary agencies to monitor and control zoonotic diseases—those that can transfer from animals to humans.
Public communication regarding potential disease risks and preventive practices has been strengthened. Officials are urging residents to cooperate with health authorities during investigations and outbreak responses, highlighting the importance of community involvement in these efforts.
Vaccination remains a cornerstone of the city’s health strategy. Health and education authorities are jointly reviewing immunization records and organizing catch-up vaccinations for students of varying ages. Vaccinations are being administered through local health stations, which are reportedly functioning effectively.
Health officials anticipate that at least 90% of children who are unvaccinated or have incomplete vaccinations against measles, rubella, polio, and Japanese encephalitis will receive their necessary doses.
As spring approaches, health authorities are preparing for seasonal illnesses, including influenza, measles, whooping cough, and chickenpox, while also keeping a watchful eye on other infectious threats. Special attention is being directed toward acute flaccid paralysis, especially given recent reports from Laos about rising cases and the potential for cross-border transmission. To address this, officials have heightened monitoring for suspected cases, broadened polio vaccination efforts, and readied rapid-response teams should any cases be detected.
Residents are encouraged to minimize contact with anyone exhibiting symptoms, maintain good personal hygiene, ensure food safety, use clean drinking water, manage waste responsibly, ensure that children are fully vaccinated, and seek medical attention promptly if they experience symptoms.
Local governments have been tasked with reinforcing surveillance at the community level, conducting thorough epidemiological investigations when suspect cases occur, and ensuring that samples are collected and sent to the Centre for Disease Control for testing.
