Vietnamese health officials are urgently working to contain a rapidly escalating outbreak of hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD), particularly in Ho Chi Minh City, where infections, severe cases, and deaths are all on the rise. The Ministry of Health has issued directives for immediate action as hospitals become increasingly strained by the surge in pediatric cases. This outbreak is occurring alongside growing concerns about a simultaneous increase in dengue fever cases, placing additional pressure on the nation’s healthcare system.
The situation is particularly worrying given the re-emergence of the EV71 virus, a strain known to cause more severe complications. HFMD, while typically mild, can lead to serious neurological and cardiac issues, especially in young children. The current outbreak represents a significant public health challenge, demanding a coordinated response to protect vulnerable populations and prevent further spread of the disease.
On Sunday, March 29th, a delegation led by Deputy Minister of Health Nguyen Thi Lien Huong inspected preventative and control efforts in Ho Chi Minh City, recognizing the potential for the epidemic to intensify. The inspection focused on assessing hospital capacity and ensuring adequate resources were available to manage the growing number of patients. The urgency reflects the scale of the problem: according to the Ho Chi Minh City Center for Disease Control, the city has recorded 10,886 cases of HFMD in the first twelve weeks of 2026, resulting in 1,992 hospitalizations and 221 severe cases.
Rising Cases and Severe Complications
The increase in severe cases is a key concern for medical professionals. Some patients are experiencing rapid deterioration, requiring intensive medical intervention, including mechanical ventilation, dialysis, and even extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) – a life support system used for severe respiratory failure. Doctors at Pediatric Hospital No. 2 report admitting hundreds of cases in the first three months of the year, with the disease potentially progressing to affect the nervous, cardiovascular, and respiratory systems within 24 hours in the most serious instances.
Health experts emphasize that children under 36 months are at the highest risk, accounting for approximately 80% of severe cases. Daycare centers and early childhood education facilities, where close contact is common, have been identified as high-risk environments requiring strict surveillance and control measures. Early detection of suspected cases, even before laboratory confirmation, is considered crucial to prevent further transmission.
Geographic Spread and Viral Strain
The outbreak isn’t limited to Ho Chi Minh City. The Pasteur Institute of Ho Chi Minh City has reported eight deaths related to HFMD across southern Vietnam, including four in Ho Chi Minh City itself, and one each in An Giang, Can Tho, Dong Nai, and Dong Thap provinces. This wider geographic spread underscores the need for a national, coordinated response.
Adding to the concern is the resurgence of the EV71 virus, which accounts for approximately 24% of samples tested since late 2025. EV71 is known to be a major cause of severe complications associated with HFMD, including encephalitis and pulmonary edema. The increased prevalence of this strain is prompting heightened vigilance and more aggressive treatment protocols.
Multi-pronged Response and Overlapping Epidemics
Deputy Minister Nguyen Thi Lien Huong stressed the importance of proactive surveillance, early detection, and rapid containment of outbreaks at their source. She urged local health authorities to ensure sufficient capacity to accommodate and treat patients, particularly those requiring intensive care. The Ministry of Health is also addressing the potential for overlapping epidemics, noting signs of increasing cases of dengue fever, measles, and meningococcal infections, which could further strain the healthcare system.
The Ministry has directed local authorities to strengthen surveillance systems, rapidly identify new cases and clusters, implement immediate containment measures, and revise patient referral procedures to avoid delays in emergency care for severe cases. HFMD is transmitted through multiple routes – the digestive tract, saliva, respiratory secretions, and direct contact, even with asymptomatic carriers – requiring rigorous preventative measures within communities, schools, and households.
With over 25,000 cases reported nationwide in less than three months – nearly five times the number recorded during the same period last year – containing the HFMD outbreak has become an urgent priority. The Ministry of Health is focused on protecting the health of children and minimizing mortality rates. Understanding the transmission routes of hand, foot, and mouth disease is critical for effective prevention.
Disclaimer: This article provides information for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. It is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
The Ministry of Health has scheduled a national briefing on April 15th to provide an update on the outbreak response and outline further preventative measures. Continued monitoring of the situation and adherence to public health guidelines are essential to mitigate the spread of HFMD and protect the health of the Vietnamese population. Share this information with your community and stay informed about the latest developments.
