Speaking at an online conference to guide localities on strengthening treatment and intensive caring for COVID-19 patients on August 2, Long underlined that the fourth wave of infections has developed in a complex manner with wide coverage and a high number of cases.

He asked localities to be more serious in their pandemic prevention and control, citing a slow response to the disease in some provinces and cities as an issue.

Noting that the previous scenarios of pandemic-hit localities fell behind the reality, he underscored the need for them to accelerate COVID-19 treatment and testing to face the current reality.

Long said that the ministry has mapped out the “three-storey tower” model in COVID-19 treatment, in which COVID-19 patients are classified in different groups depending on their health condition and the treatment methods needed.

The transfer of patients to a suitable storey is significant in minimising deaths, he said, stressing the need for smooth coordination, transport and reception of patients.

The minister emphasised the MOH’s stance of removing F0 cases from the community as soon as possible, urging localities to make proper preparations and stand ready for treatment in cases of infections.

He said that the ministry has asked all localities to mobilise the engagement of private medical establishments in anti-pandemic work.

Earlier on August 1, Long had a working session with private hospitals in Ho Chi Minh City, during which he lauded the activeness of private hospitals and clinics in COVID-19 testing and vaccination.

Amid the worsening pandemic situation in the city, their readiness to receive COVID-19 patients has helped ease the overload on the city's healthcare system, he said.

Long encouraged them to officially register with the city's Department of Health in order to set aside beds for COVID-19 patients, thus helping save more patients.

Thus far, a number of private hospitals in Ho Chi Minh City have registered to participate in COVID-19 treatment, including Hoan My Thu Duc General International Hospital, Nam Sai Gon General International Hospital, Xuyen A General Hospital, and Trieu An Hospital.

On the morning of August 2, Hanoi recorded 52 new cases of COVID-19, including 31 infections in the community and 21 in quarantine areas.

The same day, the municipal Health Department issued an urgent notice asking all local residents to immediately contact local medical authorities if showing one or more symptoms such as coughing, high temperature, sore throat, breathing trouble, tiredness, or a reduction or lack of taste or smell.

They must contact local medical stations to receive guidelines and get free COVID-19 testing. Locals can also call hotlines 0969 082 115, or 0949 396 115 for advice and support.