Surge in Seasonal Flu Cases

Vietnam has recorded over 132,000 cases of seasonal influenza since the beginning of 2025, with health authorities reporting three deaths attributed to the illness. This figure represents a notable decrease of 54.8% in cases and a reduction in fatalities compared to the same period in 2024, according to the Ministry of Health.

However, recent months have seen a significant uptick in acute respiratory infections, with 8,500 to 11,000 cases reported monthly over the past three months. This trend is particularly evident in schools across Hanoi, where a sharp rise in student absences due to fever, coughs, and respiratory ailments, primarily linked to Influenza A, has been observed.

Global Context and Local Impact

Globally, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that seasonal influenza affects approximately one billion people annually, leading to an estimated 290,000 to 650,000 deaths worldwide. In Vietnam, the average number of acute respiratory infections ranges between 300,000 and 500,000 cases each year.

The primary strains of influenza circulating in Vietnam are currently identified as A(H1N1), A(H3N2), and B. Health authorities have confirmed no changes in viral virulence.

Factors Fueling Transmission

Health authorities are warning about the impact of fluctuating autumn-winter temperatures and humidity, which create an environment conducive to the spread of respiratory viruses, including influenza and the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

This period also coincides with increased travel, social gatherings, and year-end festivities, heightening the risk of virus transmission in crowded public spaces and households. Children and the elderly are particularly vulnerable during this time.

Hospitals Report High Influx of Cases

Hospitals, especially in the northern regions, have reported a significant rise in cases of influenza, RSV, and hand, foot, and mouth disease requiring hospitalization. In Hanoi, pediatric hospitals have seen a marked increase in influenza cases among children. Since early October, the National Children’s Hospital has treated over 3,700 pediatric patients for influenza, with nearly 500 requiring admission. Some cases have resulted in serious complications such as pneumonia, middle ear infections, and high-fever-induced convulsions.

Call for Vaccination and Prevention

Dr. Dao Huu Thân, head of the Infectious Disease Prevention Department at the Hanoi Center for Disease Control (CDC Hanoi), emphasized the safety and high efficacy of current seasonal flu vaccines.

“We recommend that parents get their children vaccinated as soon as possible, especially those aged 6 months to under 5 years, as well as individuals with chronic illnesses, to prevent severe complications.”

Dr. Dao Huu Thân

Preventive measures remain crucial in mitigating the spread of these respiratory illnesses and protecting public health throughout the upcoming winter season.