The call was made as many localities have been struggling with Delta variant outbreaks with thousands of new infection cases confirmed each day, causing serious impacts on the economy and society.

PM Pham said the pandemic may last long and immensely challenge our efforts in containing it and boost economic recovery.

He called on all subordinate levels and fellow citizens to actively engage in the COVID-19 fight so as to successfully contain the pandemic and protect the public’s health and lives, to promote production and business activities and to guarantee social security for people, especially the disadvantaged.

The whole political system must focus on the combat against the pandemic but they are not allowed to belittle other tasks, including socio-economic development activities.

As of 6:30 pm on August 14, Viet Nam confirmed 265,464 infection cases, including 261,463 locally-transmitted cases recorded in 62 cities and provinces since April 27 when the fourth COVID-19 wave began in the country.

Of the national tally, 96,985 patients have recovered and exited hospitals while the death toll reached 5,437./.