Dengue Fever Becoming More Unpredictable, Experts Warn
Climate change and rapid urbanization complicate dengue prevention efforts in Vietnam.
Dengue fever in Vietnam is becoming increasingly unpredictable, with its spread reaching a larger scale and placing greater strain on the healthcare system. Experts have highlighted the growing challenges posed by rapid urbanization and climate change in controlling the disease, which is spreading to new areas. This was discussed during a government-led discussion on anti-dengue solutions on December 3.
Vietnam has reported over 114,900 dengue cases this year, with 18 deaths, showing a slight decrease compared to last year. However, experts noted that the country is facing more frequent outbreaks. Between 2019 and 2023, Vietnam saw two major dengue outbreaks with over 300,000 cases in 2019 and 370,000 cases in 2022. These outbreaks have now extended beyond the Mekong Delta and central coastal regions, affecting areas like the Southeast, North-Central, and even Hanoi, and the northern mountainous provinces.
While there is no specific treatment for dengue fever, experts emphasize the importance of vector control and preventive measures. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Thanh Hung stressed that all age groups are vulnerable, with high-risk groups including children, pregnant women, and those with pre-existing conditions. Until a vaccine becomes widely available, experts recommend continued focus on eliminating mosquito breeding grounds and ensuring public awareness to combat the spread of the disease.
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Vietnam has reported over 114,900 dengue cases this year, with 18 deaths, showing a slight decrease compared to last year. However, experts noted that the country is facing more frequent outbreaks. Between 2019 and 2023, Vietnam saw two major dengue outbreaks with over 300,000 cases in 2019 and 370,000 cases in 2022. These outbreaks have now extended beyond the Mekong Delta and central coastal regions, affecting areas like the Southeast, North-Central, and even Hanoi, and the northern mountainous provinces.
While there is no specific treatment for dengue fever, experts emphasize the importance of vector control and preventive measures. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Thanh Hung stressed that all age groups are vulnerable, with high-risk groups including children, pregnant women, and those with pre-existing conditions. Until a vaccine becomes widely available, experts recommend continued focus on eliminating mosquito breeding grounds and ensuring public awareness to combat the spread of the disease.
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