Timely encouragement given to frontline forces in COVID-19 fight

ABO/NDO - Since the first COVID-19 infection was recorded in Vietnam in late January 2020, the “white shirt soldiers”, along with relevant forces and people around the country, have implemented drastic measures to promptly prevent and control the epidemic’s spread.

It is respectable that many health workers and frontline forces in COVID-19 fight have temporarily put aside their happiness and left their relatives and families to voluntarily go to the frontline with the spirit of “fighting the epidemic like fighting the enemy”. Several health workers were unable to return in time to see their loved ones for the last time while performing the noble mission of physicians. In addition, many people were infected with COVID-19 or even passed away while on duty. The images and stories about them have moved the hearts of millions of Vietnamese people.

The frontline forces have made their efforts to prevent and control the epidemic. (Photo: NDO).

Recognising and appreciating the participation of frontline forces, the Ministry of Health has issued a document asking the People’s Committees of provinces and cities and medical units across the country to fully implement payment policies for medical staff and volunteers in the epidemic fight in accordance with Article 2 of the Government’s Resolution 16/NQ-CP, dated February 8, 2021, on the cost of medical isolation, examination and treatment and some other particular benefits in COVID-19 prevention and control.

The medical units and delegations supporting the epidemic-hit localities should urgently implement active measures to protect the health of these forces. In particularly, it is crucial to increase nutrition and arrange reasonable time for working and relaxing for medical workers who are participating in treatment, taking samples, tracing and injecting vaccines.

Furthermore, the local authorities should set out specific supporting policies such as promptly presenting gifts and rewards. In addition, the law enforcement agencies must investigate and strictly handle those who do not comply with regulations on epidemic prevention and control, especially those who assault, threaten and insult the dignity of medical workers and forces participating in COVID-19 fight.

In this tough battle with this invisible enemy, the "soldiers" on the front line will always go first and come back last. Therefore, it is essential to create the most favourable conditions for doctors, nurses and frontline forces.

Each citizen should raise their own awareness and responsibility in strictly implementing epidemic prevention and control to protect their health and families. People should join hands with health sector and other forces in the combat against COVID-19 to bring life back to normal as soon as possible.

(Source: NDO)