The authorities of Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, have moved to tighten measures to prevent the emergence and spread of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in the community, especially when the traditional lunar New Year holiday (Tet) is drawing near. 

Wearing face masks is compulsory at hospitals in the city.

Under an urgent dispatch signed on January 6, Hanoi mayor Chu Ngoc Anh asked all local administrations to encourage people to strictly observe health recommendations, including wearing face masks and avoiding large gatherings in public places.

People with underlying health issues and elderly people were advised to stay indoors and frequently make health declarations. Those with signs of a cough, a fever, difficulty breathing, or pneumonia, were required to immediately go to a medical facility for prompt instructions.

The Hanoi leader asked the Municipal Department of Health to closely monitor the epidemic in the locality and stay ready to respond quickly to any emergency case in order to keep the virus at bay in the community.

The city’s police force were directed to actively coordinate with relevant agencies to control entries, promptly prevent and strictly handle illegal entries, as well as violations of COVID-19 prevention and control regulations.

The High Command of Hanoi Capital was required to coordinate with the Municipal Department of Health and local administrations to strictly manage concentrated quarantine facilities.