A leading infectious disease specialist has warned Vietnam should not rest on its laurels after no new cases of the coronavirus were not recorded in three straight days, as the disease is evolving in a complex manner.

Testing a trader at a wholesale market in Hanoi  

The fact that Vietnam has recorded no new coronavirus cases during the past three days is a positive sign, showing the disease has regularly been brought under control, said Assoc. Prof. & PhD. Nguyen Hong Ha, vice president of the Vietnam Society of Infectious Diseases. 

However, he warned it is too early to say the disease has completely been stamped out in the country because the incubation period for the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes the disease lasts at least 14 days. 

“There are potential cases (showing typical symptoms), while some cases display minor symptoms and they do not visit a doctor or a hospital for check-ups, making it difficult for health authorities to detect,” Ha told VOV online. 

According to the specialist, medical workers normally test those returning from epidemic-hit areas and those who have contact with COVID-19 patients. When the epidemic is entering its third phase, i.e. community infection, it is necessary to test those who display minor symptoms such as a high temperature or respiratory infections, especially pneumonia.  

“If we increase the screening of these people, we will be able to find cases without clear epidemiological trace,” said Ha. “If this step is skipped, we will not be able to find traces when the disease breaks out on a large scale.”

In addition, he advised people to remain vigilant at this moment, especially when there is no vaccine or medicine for virus infection. 

“People should strictly follow the government’s preventive measures and the health sector’s recommendations, such as wearing face masks and avoiding large gatherings in public, or washing hands with soap and water when returning home. 

“Sick people should be given consultations for medical check-ups and they are required to don face masks. 

“These measures must be practiced frequently.”