The first community outbreak of COVID-19 in Viet Nam: description and lessons learned
10.5365/wpsar.2020.11.2.016
- Author:
Nhu Tran Duong
1
;
Mai Thi Le Quynh
1
;
Tran Nguyen Hien
1
;
Nghia Duy Ngu
1
;
Trong Nguyen Khoa
2
;
Hai Nguyen Tuan
1
;
Anh Tran Tu
1
;
Huy Ngo Tu
1
;
Phuong Vu Hoang Mai
1
;
Duc Dang Anh
1
Author Information
1. National Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology, Ministry of Health, Hanoi, Viet Nam
2. Agency of Health Examination and Treatment, Ministry of Health, Hanoi, Viet Nam
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- From:
Western Pacific Surveillance and Response
2021;12(2):42-50
- CountryWHO-WPRO
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Objective: At the time of this study, the prevention of novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) relied solely on nonpharmaceutical interventions. Implementation of these interventions is not always optimal and, consequently, several cases were imported into non-epidemic areas and led to large community outbreaks. This report describes the characteristics of the first community outbreak of COVID-19 in Viet Nam and the intensive preventive measures taken in response.
Methods: Cases were detected and tested for SARS-CoV-2 by real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. Contact tracing and active surveillance were conducted to identify suspected cases and individuals at risk. Clinical symptoms were recorded using a standardized questionnaire.
Results: In Vinh Phuc province from 20 January to 3 March 2020, there were 11 confirmed cases among 158 suspected cases and 663 contacts. Nine of the confirmed cases (81.8%) had mild symptoms at the time of detection and two (18.2%) were asymptomatic; none required admission to an intensive care unit. Five prevention and control measures were implemented, including quarantining a community of 10 645 individuals for 20 days. The outbreak was successfully contained as of 13 February 2020.
Discussion: In the absence of specific interventions, the intensive use of combined preventive measures can mitigate the spread of COVID-19. The lessons learned may be useful for other communities.
- Full text:wpsar.2020.11.2.016 Duong FINAL.pdf
