By now, Viet Nam has well controlled the COVID-19 pandemic as the authorities have demonstrated the highest responsibility in dealing with newly-emerged clusters. 

Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc (standing) presides over a meeting
on COVID-19 response in Ha Noi on August 27, 2020. Photo: VGP

Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc stressed the point while addressing a meeting on COVID-19 response on August 27.

As of 6:05pm on Thursday, Viet Nam reported 1,036 infection cases, including 548 linked to the COVID-19 hot spot in Da Nang.

The number of new cases tends to fall over the past weeks – an indication of the effectiveness of the country’s containment measures.

Despite the encouraging signals, the Government chief still ordered authorities, especially the health sector to avoid subjectivity and maintain high alert levels in order to prevent transmission of the virus into communities, considering it as an urgent task.

Phuc urged local leaders to issue punitive sanctions against those who intentionally violate regulations on COVID-19 responses while having detailed plans to foster economic activities.

Localities, especially border provinces must cooperate closely with the Ministry of National Defense to control the borders well in order to prevent illegal entrants.

Phuc called on smart phone users to download Bluezone app - a domestically developed contact-tracing mobile app to alert people who have interacted with COVID-19 patients, adding there have been more than 25 million downloads.

PM Phuc also urged subordinate levels to review and further simplify procedures, especially visa issuance, for foreign experts and investors to enter the country.