In response to recent outbreaks in India, the Vietnamese Ministry of Health has issued an urgent directive requiring the nationwide healthcare system to activate preventive measures against the Nipah virus (NiV). Authorities emphasized the necessity of preventing importation and transmission risks, given the pathogen’s exceptionally high fatality rate.
1. Classification and severity
The Ministry of Health has officially classified the Nipah virus as a Group A infectious disease (extremely dangerous).
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Fatality rate: Estimated between 40% and 75%.
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Medical prevention: There is currently no preventive vaccine or specific treatment available.
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Incubation period: Typically 4 to 14 days, with symptoms progressing from respiratory issues to acute encephalitis.
2. Emergency measures for medical facilities
The Administration of Medical Examination and Treatment has ordered hospitals to:
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Strict isolation: Mandated for all suspected or confirmed cases.
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Entry surveillance: Special attention must be paid to individuals returning from outbreak zones within a 14-day window.
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Medical protection: Healthcare workers and close contacts must use full personal protective equipment (PPE) to prevent cross-contamination in clinical settings.
3. Community prevention guidelines
While the virus does not spread over long distances through the air, it can form infection clusters via close contact. The public is advised to:
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Food hygiene: Strictly adhere to “eat cooked, drink boiled” principles; discard fruits with animal bite marks.
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Epidemiological history: Proactively report to health authorities if symptoms occur after returning from affected areas.
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Animal contact: Avoid direct contact with fruit bats or items contaminated by wildlife.