The Ministry of Health has ordered immediate action to contain a diphtheria outbreak in Cao Bang Province, northern Vietnam following the death of a 11-year-old schoolchild due to the disease.

The ministry’s Department of Preventive Medicine on Monday issued a directive to the provincial health department and the National Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology, emphasizing proactive measures to prevent the spread of the disease.

Health authorities confirmed the death of Giang M.H., a native of Thach Lam Commune in Bao Lam District.

The child exhibited cough and fever symptoms on November 14 but continued attending school.

The patient's condition worsened despite a week of home medication.

On November 21, the family brought the child to the Bao Lam District Medical Center for treatment, but the patient passed away the same day.

The medical center collected and sent samples taken from the patient to the National Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology for testing, with results confirming that the child was positive for diphtheria.

To prevent the disease from spreading further, the Department of Preventive Medicine ordered health authorities and agencies to identify close contacts of the patient; detect and test suspected cases in the community promptly; provide prophylactic treatment to all close contacts; and disinfect the patient’s residence and surrounding locations.

Unvaccinated or partially vaccinated individuals in outbreak zones and nearby areas will be prioritized for supplementary vaccinations.

Areas with low immunization rates will also receive urgent attention.

Hospitals and medical facilities were told to ensure proper triage, emergency care, and treatment protocols to minimize fatalities.

They must also strictly follow infection control measures to prevent cross-contamination, with healthcare workers required to wear personal protective equipment during patient interactions.

The National Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology will monitor the outbreak closely and provide local authorities with guidance and support.

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