Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City tighten social distancing measures

Accordingly, the capital city will extend social distancing measures until 6 am on September 6, especially during the National Day holiday (September 2).

According to Dispatch No.19, signed on August 21 by Chairman of the Hanoi People’s Committee Chu Ngoc Anh, the anti-pandemic work will also be strengthened at wholesale markets, shopping centres, supermarkets and convenience stores.

The chairman asked the supply of essential goods and health services for people to be ensured, while encouraging the involvement of the whole political system at all levels as well as people and businesses in the COVID-19 fight.

The Department of Education and Training was assigned to organise a virtual opening ceremony for the 2021-2022 new school year and implement the teaching work in line with regulations of the Ministry of Education and Training.

In Ho Chi Minh City, the country’s current pandemic hotspot, the local authorities have also decided to intensify COVID-19 prevention and control measures from August 23 to September 6.

The move aims to realise the goal that the pandemic be put under control before September 15.

At a meeting on the afternoon of August 21, Pham Duc Hai, Deputy Head of the Ho Chi Minh City Steering Committee for Covid-19 Prevention and Control, affirmed that the city will ensure the supply of goods during the period of strengthening epidemic prevention and control measures.

Accordingly, people in the green (safe) and yellow (low-risk) zones can go to the market once a week, while those in difficult circumstances will receive a support package from the city. In orange (high risk) and red (very high risk) areas, the task local force will help locals to purchase food and necessities once a week.

On the same day, the Chairman of Da Nang City People's Committee also signed a decision to extend the current blockade in the city until 8 am on August 26. During this time, local authorities will ensure the timely supply of food and essentials to the local people, while strengthening inspection over the implementation of epidemic prevention and control measures.