The Vietnam Buddhist Sangha (VBS) has permitted pagodas and other places of worship to resume normal operation, but only accept local Buddhist followers in the first instance.

Vesak celebrations were solemnly held across Vietnam
last week to mark 2564th birthday of Lord Buddha 

The Sangha recommended that Buddhist followers strictly implement coronavirus preventive measures, including wearing face masks and washing hands with soap or disinfectant solution. Religious sites were advised to disinfect their facilities when events with large gatherings are held.

The Sangha asked pagodas and other places of Buddhist worship to temporarily suspend receiving foreign visitors and overseas Vietnamese, especially those who are returning from epidemic-hit countries.

Though the coronavirus epidemic has been brought under control in Vietnam, pagodas located along the borders were required to make health declarations with local health authorities.

In addition to normal religious practices, the Sangha encouraged pagodas to actively engage in charity to support those vulnerable to the epidemic.