Vietnam’s real health issue is high animal-to-human disease infections. Since January, 27 rabies cases and one avian influenza case have been reported, which is a shocking proportion. This data emphasises the urgency of zoonotic disease prevention and control.
The Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Phung Duc Tien, acknowledged that small-scale livestock infections, cross-border infections, and adverse weather conditions increase the risk of animal-to-human infections. This reminds Vietnam’s healthcare and agricultural sectors to step up disease surveillance and control.
Health Deputy Minister Mrs. Nguyen Thi Huong Lien warned that zoonotic illnesses could harm Vietnam. Two human instances of avian influenza have been reported since 2022, with the latest death in March 2024. Rabies, which kills 100% of victims, has killed 27 people in the past three months and 82 in 2023.
The Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development expect more zoonotic disease cases in the coming days, requiring sector-wide collaboration to stop their spread. The root of these diseases is a big issue worth fighting, emphasising the need for unified public health initiatives.
Vietnam should improve disease surveillance, public understanding of zoonotic illnesses, veterinary services, and control techniques to address this significant issue. By proactively addressing its difficulties, the government can reduce the risk of zoonotic diseases and protect its population.
