Doctors treat a COVID-19 patient in the National Hospital of Tropical Diseases in Đông Anh District, Hà Nội. Minimising COVID-19 related deaths is now a top priority. — VNA/VNS Photo

HÀ NỘI – The Ministry of Health (MoH) has demanded provinces and centrally-run cities nationwide press on with anti-COVID-19 measures amid a surge in new infections, stressing that minimising deaths is currently the top priority.

In an official dispatch sent to the chairpersons of the provincial-level People’s Committees, the MoH pointed out that the numbers of new infections and patients in critical condition have been on the rise.

It is forecast that virus transmission in the community is likely to continue given the gradual reopening of socio-economic activities, which will cause great pressure on the healthcare system.

The ministry has requested measures against COVID-19 be ramped up, including implementing the Government’s Resolution No. 128/NQ-CP issued last October, on the safe and flexible adaptation to and control of the pandemic.

Healthcare establishments need to conduct comprehensive treatment, establish treatment levels for COVID-19 patients, and give the top priority to minimising deaths, the MoH said, asking for sufficient medical supplies and increased home treatment and telemedicine.

Localities were also told to accelerate COVID-19 vaccinations, guarantee the coverage of additional booster doses for people aged 18 and above and primary doses for those aged 12 - 17, and prepare resources for inoculating children aged 5-11 as soon as the MoH issues guidelines.

Provinces and cities should resume in-person learning, take appropriate response measures when recording new infections in schools, and ensure pandemic safety for students, depending on the local pandemic risks.

The MoH also reminded localities to step up communications to raise public awareness and improve the healthcare system, especially at the grassroots level, and strictly deal with violations of anti-pandemic rules. -- VNS