HCMC – HCMC has recorded its first three deaths from hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) this year as infections rise sharply, according to the HCMC Center for Disease Control (HCDC).
From March 9 to 15, the city reported 837 cases, up 97.1% from the average of the previous four weeks and 241.3% higher than the same period last year, HCDC data showed.
Total infections have reached nearly 7,300 so far this year. Two deaths were recorded in week 11, adding to one earlier case.
Hospitals are also treating patients referred from other provinces. In week 11, they received 138 such cases, accounting for 20.6% of total infections. Eight severe cases have been recorded, including six transferred from other localities.
HCDC noted that the city continues to receive a large number of infectious disease patients from other provinces, particularly severe cases, increasing pressure on tertiary hospitals.
The outbreak has spread widely. In week 11, 117 of 168 wards and communes reported higher case numbers compared to the previous four-week average, including 37 areas with sharp increases.
Authorities identified 30 school-based clusters and 49 community outbreaks during the week. Some localities reported multiple clusters.
The health sector plans to strengthen surveillance, improve early detection, and respond more quickly to outbreaks, while expanding prevention communication in communities, especially in preschools and home-based childcare settings.
