Proactive prevention and control of influenza A

Season transition is the time when temperature and humidity fluctuate continuously, creating favorable conditions for influenza viruses to develop. The disease can spread very quickly, especially in schools, densely populated residential areas, offices, or enclosed workplaces. In Thai Nguyen, the number of recorded influenza cases has increased slightly compared to two months earlier.

Pediatric doctors at Dong Hy Medical Center examine, consult, and provide guidance to residents on caring for children infected with influenza A.

According to data from the Thai Nguyen Provincial Infectious Disease Surveillance System, October 2025 recorded 516 influenza cases, an increase compared to August (302 cases) and September (408 cases). Many of these patients were infected with influenza A. Although the increase has not been sudden, it signals that influenza A is entering its peak period.

Dr. Ban Thi Le Quyen, Head of the Pediatrics Department, Dong Hy Medical Center, informed: “Currently, our Pediatrics Department is assigned 25 hospital beds, but on some days, we receive up to 50 patients. In addition, many patients come for examination, and we provide consultations to determine who needs inpatient treatment and who can be treated as outpatients”.

Although most influenza A patients can recover within 5–7 days, health authorities warn people not to be complacent. When symptoms such as high fever, persistent coughing, difficulty breathing, headaches, or prolonged fatigue appear, patients must go to a medical facility for proper examination, monitoring, and treatment; absolutely avoid self-medication to prevent dangerous complications.

Ms. Vu Thi Nhan, Linh Son Ward, Thai Nguyen Province said: “Yesterday, my grandchild was at school when the teachers called us to inform us that the child had a high fever of 39°C. We were worried, so we took him straight to the hospital”.

Ms. Ninh Thi Thuan, Phu Luong commune, Thai Ngyen Province shared: “Before being admitted to the hospital, my grandchild had a cough, sore throat, and high fever. But after two days, the condition improved significantly”.

Facing the risk of disease transmission during the winter–spring season, the Thai Nguyen Provincial People’s Committee has issued an official directive to strengthen the prevention and control of respiratory diseases. The Department of Health requires units to strictly follow the four principles, closely monitor cases, ensure the availability of medicines, biological products, and equipment, and strengthen infection control at healthcare facilities.

With strong direction from the Provincial People’s Committee and the health sector, surveillance and disease prevention efforts are being implemented synchronously. However, to effectively prevent influenza A and curb the spread of disease, alongside the health sector’s interventions, each individual must proactively raise awareness about protecting their own health and follow health recommendations.

Mr. Tran Van Tuyen, Deputy Director of Thai Nguyen Department of Health instructed: “First, wear masks properly in crowded places and public areas. Second, wash hands frequently with soap or sanitizing solutions. Third, clean the throat with antiseptic solutions. Fourth, keep living and working spaces well-ventilated and tidy. Fifth, improve nutrition to maintain good health”.

As influenza A follows a recurring cycle, building simple preventive habits, from washing hands and wearing masks to maintaining a clean living environment, and increasing intake of fresh vegetables and fruits to supplement vitamin C and boost immunity, is the key to protecting the health of oneself, one’s family, and the entire community.