Hanoi Department of Health, in collaboration with the Hoai Duc District People's Committee, on June 12, launched a campaign against dengue fever throughout the capital city in response to the 2023 ASEAN Dengue Day.

The event attracted many people to join various activities, including marching to promote dengue prevention and control and killing mosquito larvae before they can grow in households.

Hanoi recorded more than 19,000 infections in 2022, of which 25 died from this fever. As of June 2023, dengue fever cases increased by roughly 100 compared to last year.

According to Director of Hanoi Department of Health Tran Thi Nhi Ha, Hanoi has a high rate of dengue due to its large population and area, as well as drastic demographic changes. Outbreaks often occur in urban areas and some suburban districts, including Hoai Duc, Dan Phuong, Thanh Tri, and Thanh Oai.

The whole scene of the launching ceremony. Photo: Thai Son

The health sector predicted that this year the dengue fever situation will be complicated, and there will be many obstacles to the prevention work.

Currently, there is no vaccine against dengue fever or specific treatment for the disease. To stop the spread of dengue fever, the public needs to have an in-depth understanding of dengue fever and should be made aware of the need to change their living habits, eliminate mosquito breeding grounds by keeping water out of flower pots and aquariums, and regularly clean items that may contain water.

Ha said the health sector will continue to monitor and assess the situation, predict the development of dengue fever in the locality, and focus on professional tasks.

Districts, towns, and cities are required to actively implement disease prevention measures. In particular, residents should focus on killing mosquitoes and larvae and continue to follow the instructions of the municipal People's Committee. In addition, they must proactively arrange funds, chemicals, and equipment to use them effectively and economically.

Localities at all levels will provide dengue-related information to people through social media. Meanwhile, people are advised to contact emergency medical facilities if a high fever persists for more than two days.