HANOI: (Bernama-VNA) As of Monday (Jan 26), Vietnam has recorded no cases of Nipah virus infection, according to the Ministry of Health (MoH), which has instructed localities to step up surveillance and preventive measures and remain ready to respond to any potential outbreak, the Vietnam News Agency (VNA) reported.
The ministry has directed enhanced disease monitoring at border gates, medical facilities and in communities nationwide, while preparing response plans to prevent and control the disease if necessary.
"The MoH will continue to closely monitor developments, and coordinate with the World Health Organisation (WHO) and countries around the world to promptly issue appropriate and effective disease prevention and control measures,” the ministry said.
To proactively prevent and control Nipah virus infection, the MoH has advised the public to avoid travel to areas affected by Nipah virus unless absolutely necessary, and monitor health closely for 14 days after returning from affected areas.
The MoH also underlined the need to ensure food safety by following the principle of "eat thoroughly cooked food and drink boiled water”; wash and peel fruit before consumption; avoid eating or drinking fruit that shows signs of being bitten or gnawed by animals such as bats or birds; and refrain from consuming raw or unprocessed tree sap (such as palm sap or fresh coconut sap). - Bernama-VNA
