28 Jan 2021 | 10:30 AM UTC
Vietnam: Officials implementing COVID-19 measures in Hai Duong Province, especially Chi Linh city, as of Jan. 28
Vietnam enforcing COVID-19 restrictions in Hai Duong Province as of Jan. 28. Stricter rules ongoing in Chi Linh city.
Event
Officials are implementing restrictions in Hai Duong Province, especially Chi Linh city, as of Jan. 28 following new coronavirus disease (COVID-19) cases in the area. The end date of the measures is unclear. The central government has ordered Hai Duong's residents to remain in the province. Entry restrictions are likely also in place, though details are unclear. It is also unclear whether the government provides any exemptions from the policy. Activities involving large crowds are banned. Officials will suspend factories that are found to have violated social distancing measures. Educational institutions are closed through at least Jan. 31. Foreign workers and experts cannot enter or quarantine in Hai Duong, unless they have been in the province by Jan. 27.
Stricter controls are in effect in Chi Linh city. Residents must stay home, with exceptions for obtaining essential supplies and seeking assistance in emergency situations, among others. Locals must adhere to a social distancing of two meters. Public gatherings are limited to two people. Additionally, officials have set up checkpoints to screen people entering and leaving the city's Hung Dao Commune. Entry and exit restrictions are also in effect in the Cong Hao ward.
Authorities will likely maintain heightened security measures in Hai Duong, especially Chi Linh, in the coming days and weeks. Severe business and transport disruptions will likely occur during the movement restrictions, particularly in Chi Linh. Officials may expand the measures if local COVID-19 activity remains high.
Chi Linh is around 42 km (26 miles) northeast of Hai Phong.
Advice
Follow all official instructions. Remain polite and cooperative if questioned by security personnel. Avoid crowded areas. Stock up on essential supplies as a precaution. Confirm all travel reservations. Make allowances for likely domestic travel restrictions if operating in the region. Abide by national health and safety measures. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions. Reconsider and reconfirm nonemergency health appointments.
Emphasize basic health precautions, especially frequent handwashing with soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are unavailable. Practice good coughing/sneezing etiquette (i.e., covering coughs and sneezes with disposable tissue, maintaining distance from others, and washing hands). There is no evidence that the influenza vaccine, antibiotics, or antiviral medications will prevent this disease, highlighting the importance of diligent basic health precautions.
