Vietnam calls for enhanced Nipah virus surveillance

HANOI, Jan. 28 (Xinhua) -- Vietnam's Ministry of Health has urged local authorities to strengthen surveillance and promptly detect suspected cases of Nipah virus infection at border gates, medical facilities and in communities to prevent potential spread, especially during the Lunar New Year holiday and the upcoming festival season, local daily Suc Khoe & Doi Song reported on Wednesday.

Hospitals under the ministry's management have been asked to be ready to receive, isolate and treat patients who are confirmed or suspected to be infected with the virus.

According to the ministry, Vietnam has so far not recorded any human cases of Nipah virus infection.

The ministry said it will continue to closely monitor the situation and coordinate with the World Health Organization and other partners to ensure timely and effective prevention and response measures. ■