Ho Chi Minh City Faces Escalating Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease Outbreak
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, is grappling with a significant surge in hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) cases in early 2026, resulting in three child fatalities. The outbreak has prompted an urgent response from the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Health, with over 7,000 cases reported in the first 11 weeks of the year.
Rapid Increase in Cases and Severity
As of week 11, the city recorded 7,294 HFMD cases, a 241.3% increase compared to the same period in 2025. The number of severe cases (level 2b and above) has also risen dramatically, increasing 4.6-fold year-on-year, reaching 98 cases. In the eleventh week alone (March 9-15), 837 fresh cases were reported, a 97.1% increase compared to the average of the previous four weeks. Vietnamnet reports that since the beginning of the year, authorities have confirmed three deaths and identified 288 outbreak clusters.
Clusters and Geographic Distribution
The outbreak clusters are concentrated in schools and communities. There are currently 162 outbreaks in schools and 126 in the community. Of these, 50 are under monitoring and 110 have been contained, while 25 community clusters are currently under surveillance and 101 have been resolved. SGGP reports that areas like Ho Tram Commune have reported four HFMD clusters.
The Threat of Enterovirus 71 (EV71)
Health experts are particularly concerned about the detection of Enterovirus 71 (EV71) in pathogen surveillance. EV71 accounts for 25% (6 out of 24 samples tested) of the identified pathogens. The Ho Chi Minh City Center for Disease Control (HCDC) notes that EV71 is a highly virulent strain known for its rapid transmission and potential to cause severe neurological and respiratory complications, especially in children under five.
Response Measures
The Ho Chi Minh City Department of Health has issued an urgent directive to implement coordinated prevention and control measures. These include:
- Strengthening outbreak control at the grassroots level, prioritizing kindergartens, childcare groups, and social protection centers.
- Mobilizing a network of community health collaborators to monitor and detect cases early at the household level.
- Ensuring schools are equipped with adequate handwashing facilities, including clean water and soap.
- Close coordination between schools and local health authorities to strengthen public communication, particularly regarding the dangers of the EV71 strain and early symptom recognition.
Impact on Healthcare System
Hospitals in Ho Chi Minh City are experiencing increased pressure due to the influx of patients, including 138 HFMD cases transferred from other provinces in week 11, representing 20.6% of the total. Eight severe cases have been recorded, with six originating from outside the city, accounting for 75% of severe infections. The Straits Times reports that the city serves as a major treatment hub for infectious disease patients nationwide, particularly severe cases.
Key Takeaways
- Ho Chi Minh City is experiencing a significant HFMD outbreak with a substantial increase in cases and fatalities compared to 2025.
- The presence of the EV71 strain is a major concern due to its potential for severe complications.
- Authorities are implementing measures to control the outbreak, focusing on early detection, prevention, and treatment.
- The city’s healthcare system is facing increased strain due to the surge in cases and patients from other provinces.
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