As measles outbreaks continue to pose a significant public health challenge in Vietnam, recent reports indicate a concerning trend in the age demographics of those affected. According to the Ministry of Health, the number of suspected measles cases has surged dramatically, with 76,312 cases reported across 63 provinces as of April 2025. Among these, 8,614 have tested positive for the virus, highlighting the urgent need for effective vaccination campaigns.
The outbreak, which began in early 2025, has primarily impacted northern provinces, where cases have increased notably. In contrast, other regions have seen stabilization in the number of infections. The Ministry reported that the age distribution of measles cases has shifted following the conclusion of a vaccination campaign aimed at curbing the disease.
Specifically, data from the first three months of 2025 reveal that the age group of children between one and ten years old, which previously accounted for 61.4% of cases, has seen a 6% decrease. Meanwhile, the proportion of cases among children under one year old has slightly decreased by 0.4%, while the group over ten years old has experienced a notable increase of 6.4%. This latter group includes adolescents aged 11-15 years, who account for 19.2%, and those over 16 years, making up 16.7% of the cases.
As of April 17, 2025, the vaccination efforts have achieved remarkable success, with 52 out of 54 provinces reporting vaccination rates exceeding 95%, thus meeting the planned targets. However, two provinces still report vaccination rates between 90% and 95%. The Ministry of Health has directed local health departments to review vaccination registrations and coordinate with relevant units to plan the third phase of the measles prevention campaign for 2025.
In light of the changing demographics of measles cases, the Ministry has emphasized the importance of targeting unvaccinated children aged 11 to 15, those who have not received two doses of the measles vaccine, or those with no vaccination history. Health officials are urged to ensure accurate records, particularly in high-risk areas, to mitigate further outbreaks.
Despite the apparent success in vaccination coverage, the Ministry of Health has expressed concerns regarding the challenges that remain. Some localities still struggle to achieve high vaccination rates, particularly in remote and urban areas where access to healthcare is limited. Additionally, public awareness regarding the importance of vaccination remains low in certain communities, leading to hesitancy about receiving vaccines.
In response to the ongoing outbreak, health authorities are ramping up communication efforts to raise awareness about the disease and preventive measures. They are also encouraging parents to have their children vaccinated and to seek medical attention if symptoms arise.
Moreover, the Ministry has reported two deaths linked to measles, underscoring the seriousness of the situation. Health officials are working diligently to control the spread of the virus while enhancing healthcare services to manage infections effectively.
The outbreak of measles is not an isolated incident. The Ministry of Health is also addressing other public health concerns, including the rise of seasonal diseases such as influenza and dengue fever, which are expected to increase during the warmer months. Authorities are implementing measures to prevent these diseases, particularly as the weather becomes conducive to mosquito breeding.
In a related initiative, the Ministry has announced free flu vaccinations for veterans and individuals who have contributed to the nation's independence. This program is part of a broader effort to ensure that vulnerable populations receive adequate healthcare services.
As the Ministry continues to tackle these public health challenges, the focus remains on improving vaccination rates and enhancing healthcare access across all regions. The success of these initiatives is crucial in protecting the health of the population and preventing further outbreaks of measles and other infectious diseases.
The Ministry of Health's proactive approach, including regular updates on vaccination campaigns and public health advisories, aims to keep the public informed and engaged in preventive health measures. As the situation evolves, the commitment to safeguarding public health remains a top priority.
