Deputy Prime Minister Vu Duc Dam reiterated the Government will continue staying focused on fighting COVID-19 as the pandemic may last long. 

Deputy Prime Minister Vu Duc Dam addresses a video meeting on development
of a new Directive of the Prime Minister on COVID-19 prevention and control, Ha Noi,
April 17, 2020. Photo: VGP

Dam underlined the point during a video meeting attended by members of the Steering Committee for COVID-19 Prevention and Control and leaders of ministries, agencies and localities on Friday afternoon.

Dam, who is head of the steering commit, demanded consistent and drastic implementation of the adopted guidelines and measures, especially strict entry control.

In a latest move, the Government announced Thursday that it would not ease entry restrictions until April 30 and continue temporary suspension of visa issuance to all foreigners, except for those who are entrants for diplomatic or official purposes, experts, highly skilled workers, international investors.

On Wednesday, the Government decided to extend social distancing for at least one week in 28 provinces and cities with risks of the virus transmision.

In addition, Dam also noted that COVID-19 outbreaks have led to positive changes in the society as evidenced by the introduction of more online services like e-learning, e-transactions, and e-meetings among others.

As of 6:10 pm on April 17, Viet Nam confirmed 268 cases of COVID-19 infection, of whom 198 have been cleared of the virus and exited hospitals, according to the steering committee./.