Social distancing rules must be strictly enforced as COVID-19 pandemic remains complicated

In a public telegram issued on Monday, the Government chief requested authorities in Ho Chi Minh City, Binh Duong, Dong Nai and Long An to ask residents to stay put as these localities are being hit hardest by the pandemic.

Social distancing is the “decisive” factor to minimize the spread off the virus, thus it must be seriously implemented to control the pandemic in the shortest time, PM Pham stressed.

He also ordered prompt mass testing as it is the “key” to uncover infected cases early so that they can be classified timely for proper and effective treatment.

Localities must stay ready in terms of facilities, medical equipment and supplies, and manpower for COVID-19 treatment as reduction of deaths is the top priority.

In areas where social distancing is imposed, local authorities must ensure supply of food and other essential services for residents, especially the poor, the elderly, women and children and other vulnerable groups.

Underlining the strategic significance of vaccines and drugs for COVID-19 treatment, PM Pham called for stepping up “vaccine diplomacy” to acquire vaccines and drugs as soon and as much as possible while creating the most favorable conditions for research, transfer of production technology, and domestic production of vaccines.

Enterprises, organizations and individuals are encouraged to import vaccines that have been approved for emergency use in Viet Nam. The Ministry of Health is responsible for granting import licenses, verifying the imported vaccines and organizing free vaccination.

By Kim Anh