As of March 21, 2025, Vietnam is grappling with a widespread measles outbreak that has affected various provinces across the country. From the start of the year until March 20, the Ministry of Health reported a staggering 42,488 suspected cases of measles, including 4,027 confirmed cases. The southern region has been hit especially hard, accounting for 54.9% of all suspected cases, while the Central region and the North follow with 20% and 16.4%, respectively.
Dr. Hoang Minh Duc from the Department of Preventive Medicine stated, "The data shows a significant increase in diseases compared to the previous year, and careful monitoring is essential as we expect to see more cases in instances where vaccination coverage is lacking." The trend is concerning due to the high percentage of cases found among children aged 9 months to under 15 years, which make up 72.7% of reported cases.
The cities reporting the highest concentrations of cases include Da Nang, with 2,323 confirmed instances, Gia Lai (2,027), Dong Thap (1,355), and An Giang (1,169). Five fatalities due to measles were recorded, with two occurring in Ho Chi Minh City, and one each in Dong Nai, Binh Duong, and Binh Phuoc. This alarming rise indicates the significance of stringent public health measures.
According to the health authorities, a staggering 95% of those infected had either not been vaccinated against measles or were unclear about their vaccination status. This highlights the critical need for enhanced immunization campaigns, especially in urban areas where population mobility is high, and among ethnic minority groups in mountainous regions who might have limited access to healthcare services.
To combat the outbreak, the government is ramping up vaccination efforts. Currently, 54 provinces and cities are in the midst of a second wave of the 2025 measles vaccination campaign, with emphasis on both vulnerable and at-risk populations. The Department of Preventive Medicine has urged local health departments to closely monitor the epidemic situation and coordinate effectively with epidemiological institutes to propose and implement necessary measures to curb the outbreak.
Since the beginning of the year 2025, health officials have implemented three major strategies: vaccination campaigns, healthcare training for local professionals, and strict monitoring of suspected cases. Following the recent rise in reported measles cases, it has become imperative to swiftly adapt and relay these strategies in alignment with real-time data.
Dr. Duc has indicated that while the number of new cases is stabilizing in some areas like Ha Giang (6,017 cases) and Ho Chi Minh City (3,396 cases), vigilance remains vital to avoid further outbreaks. "It is crucial for local health authorities to equip themselves with sufficient resources and personnel to manage rising cases effectively in hard-hit areas. Actions cannot be delayed," he remarked.
Health officials are now focused on ensuring vaccine access for infants and children, implementing community education regarding inoculation's importance, and mobilizing additional resources for vaccination drives. The vaccination plans involve various age-focused initiatives: 24 provinces are administering vaccines to children aged 6-9 months and those from 1-10 years, while others target exclusively children aged 1-10.
The national campaign utilizes a combination of 1.5 million doses of vaccines provided by the World Health Organization alongside self-purchased supplies from local sources. This comprehensive approach is designed to vaccinate in phases and to enhance awareness regarding the importance of measles immunization.
In places where vaccination rates remain low, the authorities encourage mobile vaccination units and household visits to reach those in need efficiently. This strategy is vital, as health disparities could increase due to geographical and social factors, particularly in less accessible areas.
Moreover, the Ministry of Health has secured the commitment of experienced medical personnel to assist local clinics, particularly in rural and remote regions where healthcare resources are scarce. By leveraging technology, health workers are being encouraged to utilize social media and establish networks to share resources and provide technical support remotely, especially in hard-to-reach communities.
A detailed plan, initiated under the guidance of the government’s official directive numbered 23/CD-TTg issued on March 15, emphasizes the urgency of responding effectively to this outbreak. The plan outlines careful monitoring of the measles situation while mobilizing health workers to address clusters of suspected cases diligently.
Time is critical, with the Department of Preventive Medicine highlighting that measures taken now will influence the trajectory of this outbreak. "We must act decisively to prevent further spread and to control the situation among our most vulnerable populations,” Dr. Duc added.
Overall, Vietnam's healthcare framework is engaging all facets of response to ensure that it mitigates the current measles outbreak effectively while safeguarding the health of its citizens. The government’s proactive stance and the concerted efforts of health agencies promise a comprehensive strategy to combat this infectious disease as vaccinations increase and education spreads throughout the nation.
