Vietnam Reports a Surge in Severe Influenza Cases Requiring Hospitalization While Tamiflu Prices Rise

Medical News: Alarming Increase in Flu Cases Across Vietnam
Vietnam is currently facing a sharp increase in severe influenza cases, with hospitals overwhelmed by patients suffering from serious respiratory complications. Many of these cases have escalated to critical conditions, requiring intensive care, mechanical ventilation, or even extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). The rise in hospitalizations has raised concerns among health experts, who warn that the flu virus is particularly dangerous for individuals with underlying health conditions such as chronic lung diseases, cardiovascular issues, and weakened immune systems.


Vietnam Reports a Surge in Severe Influenza Cases Requiring Hospitalization While Tamiflu Prices Rise

Amid the flu outbreak, the demand for the antiviral drug Tamiflu has surged, leading to a significant increase in its market price. The shortage of this medication, coupled with panic buying, has led to concerns about accessibility and affordability, especially for those who need it the most. This Medical News report highlights the critical situation unfolding in Vietnam’s healthcare system and the economic implications of the rising cost of Tamiflu.
 
Severe Cases on the Rise
Doctors at the National Hospital for Tropical Diseases in Hanoi have reported multiple cases of patients suffering from acute respiratory failure due to influenza. Many of these patients arrive at hospitals in dire conditions, having delayed seeking medical help until their symptoms worsened.
 
One case involves a 58-year-old man from Tuyen Quang who had a history of mild hypertension and past tobacco use. Initially self-treating his flu symptoms at home, his condition deteriorated, leading to hospitalization and a confirmed influenza A diagnosis. Despite intensive care, his respiratory function rapidly declined, requiring intubation and eventual ECMO support. His prognosis remains critical due to severe lung damage and septic shock.
 
Another patient, a 62-year-old man from Quang Ninh with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), faced a similar fate. Within days of contracting the flu, his symptoms worsened, necessitating emergency intervention. He remains intubated and reliant on ventilatory support, with doctors uncertain about his recovery timeline.
 
High-Risk Groups Warned to Take Precautions
Medical professionals stress that influenza is not a trivial illness, particularly for individuals with pre-existing health conditions. Dr. Vo Duc Linh from the Intensive Care Center at the National Hospital for Tropical Diseases has cautioned that flu infections can trigger severe respiratory complications, especially in COPD patients. The virus directly affects the lungs, exacerbating underlying conditions and making recovery challenging.
 
Dr. Pham Van Phuc, Deputy Director of the Intensive Care Center, emphasized the importance of early detection and medical intervention. He urged high-risk groups - including the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic ill nesses - to take proactive measures, such as receiving the annual flu vaccine and practicing strict hygiene habits.
 
Seasonal Trends and Rising Infections
The current flu surge coincides with Vietnam’s cold winter months and the increased movement of people during the Lunar New Year celebrations. Health officials attribute the rising number of cases to both the weather and increased social interactions. The predominant flu strains circulating include influenza A (H1N1 and H3N2) and influenza B.
 
Meanwhile, global flu outbreaks have also raised alarms. The Ministry of Health has been closely monitoring flu outbreaks in other countries, such as Japan, where millions of cases have been recorded in recent months. These developments highlight the continued threat of seasonal flu and the need for vigilant public health measures.
 
Ministry of Health Issues Flu Prevention Guidelines
Vietnam’s Ministry of Health has issued a set of guidelines to prevent flu transmission and reduce severe complications:
 
-Individuals experiencing flu symptoms such as fever, cough, and body aches should seek medical advice instead of self-medicating.
 
-Coughing and sneezing etiquette should be practiced, including covering the mouth and nose.
 
-The use of face masks and regular handwashing with soap or sanitizer should be prioritized.
 
-People should maintain a healthy lifestyle to strengthen their immune system.
High-risk individuals should get vaccinated annually to lower their chances of severe flu infections.
 
Tamiflu Price Surge Causes Concern
As flu cases rise, so does the demand for Tamiflu, the antiviral medication used to treat influenza A. Many people, fearing severe illness, have rushed to pharmacies to purchase the drug, leading to price hikes. Reports indicate that Tamiflu prices have jumped significantly, with some retailers selling it at nearly double its standard price.
 
In Hanoi, pharmacies have reported dwindling stocks, with Tamiflu retailing for up to 690,000 VND per box, compared to 450,000 VND previously. In Ho Chi Minh City, some drugstores have already run out of stock, while online sellers have taken advantage of the situation, offering Tamiflu at inflated prices.
 
Despite warnings from medical experts that Tamiflu should only be used under a doctor’s prescription, many individuals are buying the drug in bulk, fearing shortages. This has led to concerns about drug misuse, as unnecessary consumption of Tamiflu can lead to side effects such as vomiting, diarrhea, and even drug resistance in the long run.
 
Authorities Take Action to Curb Price Manipulation
The Drug Administration of Vietnam has stepped in to regulate the distribution and pricing of Tamiflu, warning against price gouging. Authorities have urged pharmacies to adhere to pricing regulations and have cautioned against the illegal sale of prescription medication without proper authorization.
 
Health experts emphasize that Tamiflu is not a cure-all and that mild flu cases can often be managed with rest, hydration, and fever-reducing medications. Only those with severe flu symptoms, particularly high-risk patients, require antiviral treatment.
 
Conclusion: Flu Prevention is Key
Vietnam’s flu crisis highlights the importance of early intervention and preventative measures. With severe cases increasing, hospitals are under immense pressure to provide critical care to flu patients suffering from respiratory complications. The ongoing Tamiflu price surge further complicates access to essential treatment, particularly for vulnerable populations.
 
To reduce the risks associated with influenza, individuals must prioritize annual vaccinations, maintain good hygiene practices, and seek timely medical assistance when flu symptoms appear. Government agencies and healthcare professionals are working tirelessly to contain the outbreak and ensure that essential medications remain accessible and affordable for those in need.
 
The flu may be a common illness, but its impact can be devastating, especially for individuals with underlying health conditions. Public awareness and responsible healthcare practices remain crucial in mitigating the current crisis and preventing future outbreaks.
 
Media references:
https://nhandan.vn/tang-ca-mac-cum-bac-si-canh-bao-nhung-nguoi-co-benh-nen-post859154.html
 
https://tuoitre.vn/thuc-hu-thuoc-tamiflu-chong-cum-khan-hang-loan-gia-20250209123755967.htm
 
https://vietnamnet.vn/en/flu-outbreak-warning-severe-cases-lead-to-lung-failure-and-rapid-deterioration-2368857.html
 
For the latest Influenza News, keep on logging to Thailand Medical News.
 
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