Vietnam officially declares COVID-19 a national epidemic

The decision will see the COVID-19 classified as an infectious disease on a global scale that is caused by a the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2, more commonly known as SARS-COV-2. This virus has the ability to be transmitted from human to human and attacks the respiratory system of those it infects.

The coronavirus has spread to 25 cities and provinces nationwide

Soldiers, police officers, and medical workers have been mobilised in an attempt to cordon off and disinfect specific areas which have been hit by the epidemic, whilst moving to place any suspected cases into quarantine, in addition to providing treatment to patients.

The government, ministries, agencies, and localities have been consistently releasing warnings to help keep citizens updated about developments relating to the COVID-19, while also imposing strict measures, including social distancing, in an attempt to bring the epidemic under control.

Experts believe that declaring the COVID-19 a national epidemic is of great significance as it indicates the severity, the rapid transmission, and potential spread of the virus among the community. Moreover, it also displays the government’s strong resolve to pool all resources in the fight to stamp out the epidemic.

The decision comes as the COVID-19 has spread to 25 cities and provinces across the country. As of April 1, Vietnam has recorded a total of 212 infections, of which 63 have been subsequently discharged from hospital.