Experts warn that the flu virus is especially dangerous for those with underlying health conditions, leading to critical complications such as lung failure and sepsis.

The number of flu cases has been rising sharply in recent days. Due to negligence, many patients are admitted to hospitals in critical condition, suffering from respiratory failure and requiring mechanical ventilation or extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO).

The National Hospital for Tropical Diseases in Hanoi is currently treating eight severe flu patients, with some requiring ECMO support.

Severe cases with lung failure

Patient L.V.T, a 58-year-old resident of Son Duong, Tuyen Quang, had a history of mild hypertension but did not maintain regular medication. He had also smoked cigarettes and pipe tobacco for 30 years before quitting a decade ago.

About three weeks before hospitalization, he developed symptoms of cough, fever, and shortness of breath but opted for self-treatment at home. After a week without improvement, he was admitted to the hospital and tested positive for influenza A.

Despite intensive treatment, his breathing difficulties worsened, leading to severe respiratory failure that necessitated intubation.

He was transferred to the Intensive Care Center at the National Hospital for Tropical Diseases in septic shock and requiring mechanical ventilation. His lungs were severely damaged, with near-total impairment of both sides, leading to carbon dioxide buildup and complete loss of ventilatory function. Doctors had to place him on ECMO.

Following ECMO placement, his vital signs stabilized temporarily, but his condition remains critical due to ongoing septic shock and severe infection.

The second severe case is V.V.U, a 62-year-old man from Dong Trieu, Quang Ninh, with a history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). He did not regularly monitor his condition.

Three days before hospital admission, he experienced worsening fever, cough, and shortness of breath, prompting his family to seek emergency care. Within two days, his respiratory failure deteriorated further, necessitating intubation. Tests confirmed influenza A, and he was transferred to the National Hospital for Tropical Diseases.

After two weeks of treatment, his prognosis remains poor. He continues to require intubation and is being fed via a gastric tube as he is unable to eat independently.

High-risk individuals urged to take precautions

According to Dr. Vo Duc Linh from the Intensive Care Center at the National Hospital for Tropical Diseases, influenza A and flu in general are particularly dangerous for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Since the flu virus directly affects the lungs, individuals with pre-existing lung damage are more likely to experience severe complications compared to healthy individuals.

Dr. Linh noted that Mr. U’s respiratory failure progressed rapidly within just 2–3 days, requiring intubation in a short time.

Dr. Pham Van Phuc, Deputy Director of the Intensive Care Center, emphasized that individuals with underlying health conditions, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems must take extra precautions when contracting the flu. The illness can become life-threatening, leading to widespread lung damage, bacterial superinfection, myocarditis, multi-organ failure, and even death.

Many people underestimate the flu, assuming it is a mild illness and delaying medical care. However, in individuals with weakened immune systems, the flu can lead to severe complications, making emergency treatment challenging. Early detection and treatment are crucial.

People with underlying health conditions are advised to get annual flu vaccinations. Personal protective measures should be strictly followed, especially by high-risk groups.

Rising flu cases amid winter and holiday season

Dr. Phuc noted that flu cases have surged in recent weeks due to cold weather in northern Vietnam. Additionally, the Lunar New Year holiday increases the risk of flu outbreaks due to heightened travel, social interactions, and public gatherings. Influenza A and B are the most common strains in circulation.

In Vietnam, flu viruses circulate year-round, with periodic outbreaks of different strains and subtypes.

On the afternoon of February 5, the Department of Preventive Medicine under the Ministry of Health reported on the ongoing flu outbreak in Japan following the death of actress Barbie Hsu during her trip to the country.

According to Japan’s National Institute of Infectious Diseases, approximately 9.5 million flu cases were recorded from September 2, 2024, to January 26, 2025. The final week of 2024 alone saw over 317,000 cases.

The Ministry of Health stated it would continue to monitor domestic and international flu developments, providing timely guidance to local authorities and medical units. The ministry aims to ensure accurate public communication to prevent panic while maintaining vigilance against respiratory disease transmission, especially in the current weather conditions.

Ministry of Health’s flu prevention recommendations

The Department of Preventive Medicine warns that flu symptoms are difficult to distinguish from other respiratory illnesses. Diagnosis and treatment should follow medical guidelines.

To proactively prevent flu infections, the Ministry of Health advises:

People with symptoms such as cough, fever, runny nose, headache, and fatigue should not self-medicate or conduct home testing. They should seek medical consultation and treatment.

Cover the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing to reduce the spread of respiratory droplets.

Wear masks, wash hands with soap and clean water, or use hand sanitizers - especially after coughing or sneezing. Avoid spitting in public places.

Limit contact with flu patients or suspected cases.

Maintain a healthy lifestyle, engage in physical activity, and boost immunity.

Phuong Thuy