NDO – Vietnam has not detected any cases of plague in humans since 2003, announced the Ministry of Health (MoH) on December 2.
The first plague case was identified in Nha Trang in 1898.
Vietnam remains at risk of plague invading as plague carriers may enter the country with international arrivals and the transportation of goods and can penetrate and infect rodents and humans.
In November, the World Health Organisation announced a plague epidemic in Madagascar. The country has recorded 119 infected cases, including 40 casualties as of November 16. China also recorded one case of pneumonic plague in Gansu province. In the US, four cases of plague were detected in Adam county, Colorado.
To actively prevent and combat plague, the MoH has directed local health departments to enhance preventive measures against the disease, in addition to conducting annual plague epidemiology in provinces and regions at risk (such as localities with previously recorded plague infected cases).
The ministry urged close monitoring of means of transport by sea, rail, and road at international border crossings and border gates, particularly from countries with plague in circulation in humans and animals.
Centres for medical quarantine were asked to conduct health checks and closely monitor travelers, vehicles and goods imported into Vietnam, while also enhancing hygiene to get rid of rats and fleas on ships and planes.
Preventive medical centres should closely monitor any patients with high fever, swollen lymph nodes, and symptoms of respiratory distress syndrome, especially those returning to Vietnam from the affected areas, for prompt detection and treatment to minimise the risk of spreading plague.
Đăng ký: VietNam News