Mr. Vu Duc Dam, Deputy Prime Minister and Deputy Head of the National Steering Committee for Covid-19 Prevention and Control, led a meeting with experts on September 9 to discuss anti-pandemic measures in the new situation.

Experts and scientists believe the strategy should be adjusted as circumstances change. In order to reach the “new normal”, they agreed it is necessary to fully complete the vaccination program under regulations from the Ministry of Health. The treatment system also needs to be fully equipped with medicines, oxygen, and the necessary equipment to effectively treat patients and minimize fatalities.

They also emphasized that it is necessary to continue strengthening access to vaccines, and at the same time promote research and domestic vaccine production. Vaccines need to be allocated to areas requiring immediate protection, such as Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and cities and provinces with many industrial parks and production chains. A vaccination program for children should also be considered.

Moreover, social distancing is viewed as an effective measure to slow the infection rate and should therefore continue if there are insufficient vaccines. Regarding the mobilization of private healthcare services for the treatment and care of Covid-19 patients, it is recommended that payment for private healthcare be similar to that for public treatment. Other costs must be based on the principle of transparency and voluntariness.