Two Covid-19 Variants Dominant in Ho Chi Minh City Amid Dengue Fever Rise

Two Covid-19 variants, NB.1.8.1 (including sub-branches SV.1.1 and RK.1) and XFG.1.1, are now dominant in Ho Chi Minh City, according to the city's Department of Health. However, there is no evidence to suggest these variants are causing more severe illness than previous strains. As of August 5, the city's infectious disease surveillance system has not recorded any unusual fluctuations in Covid-19 cases, and no severe cases have been reported. Most patients are experiencing mild symptoms, and even those with underlying health conditions are responding well to treatment and recovering. Genetic sequencing results from July confirmed the prevalence of NB.1.8.1 and XFG.1.1, consistent with surveillance data from mid-last year. Globally, both NB.1.8.1 and XFG are classified as sub-lineages of Omicron and are considered "variants under monitoring" by the World Health Organization (WHO). Currently, there is no evidence indicating they cause more severe disease compared to other variants. While the Covid-19 situation remains stable, dengue fever cases are on the rise, in line with the typical pattern during the rainy season. In the past week, Ho Chi Minh City recorded 995 dengue fever cases, a 20% increase compared to the average of the preceding four weeks. Year-to-date, the city has reported 23,481 dengue fever cases, an almost 24% increase from the same period last year. The areas with the highest incidence rates are An Nhon Tay, Chanh Phu Hoa, and Ngai Giao. This upward trend in dengue fever is also observed across the southern region. According to the Pasteur Institute in Ho Chi Minh City, the region reported 53,428 dengue fever cases in the first 29 weeks of the year, a nearly 39% increase compared to the same period in 2025. Dong Nai, Ho Chi Minh City, and Tay Ninh are currently experiencing significant increases in case numbers. Hand, foot, and mouth disease, however, remains largely stable. The city recorded an additional 1,050 cases last week, bringing the total number of cases since the beginning of the year to 27,289. In anticipation of the simultaneous circulation of multiple infectious diseases during the rainy season, the Department of Health urges the public not to be complacent and to proactively implement preventive measures. For dengue fever, it is recommended that each household regularly eliminate mosquito larvae, cover or invert water-holding containers, clear debris, and change water in vases weekly. Additionally, sleeping under mosquito nets, wearing long sleeves and pants, and using mosquito repellents are advised. Individuals aged four and above are encouraged to get vaccinated to reduce the risk of infection and severe illness. To prevent hand, foot, and mouth disease, the public should adhere to the "three cleans" principle: clean hands, clean food and drink, and a clean living environment. This includes frequent handwashing with soap, consuming thoroughly cooked food and boiled water, and sanitizing toys and surfaces that children frequently touch. Regarding Covid-19, the Department of Health recommends continuing to wear masks in public places, healthcare facilities, and on public transport, maintaining respiratory hygiene, washing hands regularly, and ensuring full completion of booster vaccine doses for high-risk groups such as the elderly and individuals with underlying health conditions. Individuals experiencing suspected symptoms like high fever, rash, or other unusual signs are advised to seek immediate medical attention rather than self-treating at home to minimize the risk of complications.