Dengue Fever Cases Surge in Ho Chi Minh City Amid Seasonal Factors and Urbanization

The number of dengue fever cases in Ho Chi Minh City has been steadily increasing in recent weeks, with nearly 1,000 new infections reported each week. According to data from the Ho Chi Minh City Center for Disease Control (HCDC), the city recorded 995 dengue fever cases in week 30 (July 20-26), a 20% increase compared to the average of the preceding four weeks. In week 29 (July 13-19), the city reported 954 cases, up 32.0% from the four-week average. From the beginning of the year up to week 30, a total of 23,481 cases have been recorded citywide. Experts note that the rise in cases follows the typical annual epidemiological pattern as the rainy season begins. Localities are urged to enhance disease surveillance, thoroughly eliminate mosquito larvae breeding sites, control risk areas, and intensify communication efforts to curb the spread of the epidemic. Dr. Le Thanh Khoi, Deputy Medical Director at Long Chau Pharmacy and Vaccination System, explained that prolonged rainy weather creates ideal breeding grounds for disease-carrying mosquitoes in water-holding containers, manholes, eaves, balconies, and poorly cleaned areas. Besides weather factors, Ho Chi Minh City's high population density, extensive construction, concentrated residential areas, and outdoor water containers that are not regularly cleaned contribute to mosquito breeding. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), rapid urbanization and inefficient water resource management are factors that lead to the persistent circulation of dengue fever in many tropical cities. Dr. Thanh Khoi added that dengue fever is no longer primarily a childhood illness, with a growing proportion of adults contracting the disease. Many cases are delayed in seeking medical attention due to complacency or self-treatment at home. Individuals experiencing persistent high fever, headache, muscle aches, rash, or warning signs such as severe abdominal pain, continuous vomiting, or unusual bleeding should seek timely medical examination and treatment. Dr. Thanh Khoi also cautioned that the Dengue virus has four serotypes, meaning a person can be infected multiple times throughout their life. Notably, re-infections carry a higher risk of severe progression if not detected and monitored promptly. Experts emphasize that dengue fever prevention requires a synchronized approach, including eliminating stagnant water sources, eradicating mosquito larvae, using mosquito bite prevention measures, and monitoring health for suspected symptoms. Vaccination is also a proactive solution to reduce the risk of infection and severe cases. Vietnam has dengue fever vaccines available for children aged 4 and above, as well as adults, including those who have previously been infected. The vaccination schedule consists of two doses administered three months apart, offering protection against all four Dengue virus serotypes. Upon completion of the full vaccination course, the protective efficacy exceeds 80%, and the risk of hospitalization due to dengue fever is reduced by over 90%. In parallel with the epidemic's progression, the Long Chau Pharmacy and Vaccination System has observed an increasing trend in the number of people seeking consultations and information about dengue fever vaccines. "This indicates a growing awareness of proactive disease prevention, in addition to traditional measures such as environmental sanitation, eliminating mosquito breeding sites, and avoiding mosquito bites," a representative from Long Chau stated.