Tet is a time of celebration, but the World Health Organization’s Viet Nam office is also warning people of the increased risks associated with the holiday.
Of most concern is the increased chance of exposure to the avian influenza virus, food poisoning and road traffic injuries.
“WHO’s aim is to ensure that all Vietnamese people are aware of these heightened risks, and take appropriate action to stay safe and healthy,” said Dr. Jean-Marc Olivé, WHO Representative in Viet Nam.
"Tet is a time of happiness and a celebration of life. It should not be a time of illness or mourning the loss of life. I urge all people to take simple precautions to protect themselves and their family this holiday season.”
Avian Influenza
With the surge in the sale and slaughter of poultry for family feasts at Tet, there is a corresponding escalation in the risk of avian influenza.
This is exacerbated is by low winter temperatures in the north of the country, as this weather seems to be conducive to the spread of the virus.
“You can protect yourself, your family and your community from this very serious threat by following some key actions,” Dr Olivé said.
- Avoid contact with sick or dead poultry
- Report sick or dead poultry immediately to the authorities
- Slaughter all poultry safely (wear masks and gloves and use disinfectant)
- Cook poultry thoroughly ( do not eat pink meat, runny eggs or raw duck blood)
- Wash hands with soap before and after handling live poultry
Food safety
Food poisoning is a serious health issue in Viet Nam. It can cause severe illness and even death.
Many instances of severe food poisoning occur at family feasts or mass celebrations. This usually happens because of a lack of hygiene and sanitation.
However, there are some simple practices to avoid food poisoning:
- Always wash your hands after going to the toilet and before preparing food
- Separate raw and cooked food
- Cook food thoroughly
- Keep food at safe temperatures
- Use only clean water and safe foods
Road safety
In the next week millions of people will travel on Viet Nam’s roads to be with family and friends.
Congested roads increase the chances of a serious traffic accident.
Road traffic injury is a leading cause of death and disability in Viet Nam, with an average of 35 people dying every day on the country’s roads. Many more are seriously hurt and require lifelong care.
Almost all these deaths and injuries are preventable.
“Wearing a high-quality, fastened helmet is in fact THE single most effective way of reducing head injuries and deaths resulting from motorcycle crashes,” Dr Olivé said.
“Put a helmet on yourself and on your children and make sure they are fastened properly.
“We have heard too many stories of a parent surviving a crash because they were wearing a helmet, while their unprotected child died unnecessarily from terrible head injuries.
“Please never allow this to happen to your family – especially this Tet,” he said.
Drink Driving
Driving or riding after drinking alcohol (even very small amounts) significantly increases the risk of a road traffic crash.
Alcohol consumption in Viet Nam is very high, especially amongst men and particularly during Tet celebrations.
Statistics show that many accidents and deaths on Viet Nam’s road are associated with alcohol consumption.
“If you drink and drive you risk not only killing yourself, but other innocent people,” Dr Olivé said.
“Be responsible. Do not let your family or friends drive a motorcycle or car after drinking alcohol.
Happy New Year
“These messages are not designed to dampen the spirit or enjoyment of Tet.
“Please follow the simple steps, so everyone can enjoy a safe, happy and healthy holiday,” he said.
WHO Viet Nam wishes everyone luck, prosperity and most of all - good health – in 2009 Chuc Mung Nam Moi!
Further information – see these links to our new country website:
- Avian Influenza: https://www.who.int/westernpacific/health-topics/influenza-avian-and-other-zoonotic
- Food safety: https://www.who.int/westernpacific/health-topics/food-safety
Contact: Ms. Shelaye Boothey, WHO Communications, Tel: 84-4-943 3734/5/6, Email: bootheys@wpro.who.int