Official Vietnam Government Coronavirus (COVID-19) Info Site

OceanBeach92107 wrote:

NATIONWIDE QUARANTINE ***

Following this link provided through email alert by the US Embassy, Hanoi:

mnews.chinhphu.vn/story.aspx?did=391483

Here follows a Google Translate app translation into English:

Tuesday 03/03/2020 17:37

The Prime Minister instructed: To quarantine the whole society from the 1st of April at midnight nationwide

(Chinhphu.vn) - The Prime Minister has just issued Directive No. 16 / CT-TTg on the implementation of urgent measures to prevent and control COVID-19 epidemic. Accordingly, the implementation of social isolation within 15 days from 0:00 on April 1, 2020 on a national scale according to the principle of family isolating from families and villages isolating from villages and communes. To be isolated from communes and districts, isolated from districts and provinces, isolated from provinces, workshops and production plants, to ensure a safe distance, wear masks, disinfect and sterilize them according to regulations.

The contents of the Directive are as follows:

The COVID-19 epidemic broke out globally, affecting over 72,000 people, nearly 3.5 million died in more than 200 countries and territories and there was no sign of stopping. In Vietnam, the number of cases is increasing rapidly day by day and there is a high risk of infection in the community. It is predicted that the disease will spread rapidly on a large scale, seriously threatening human life, human health and socio-economic of the country.

Following the call of General Secretary and President Nguyen Phu Trong, with the spirit of attaching great importance to human health and life above all else, to continue to proactively prevent and control epidemics, Prime Minister The Government requested ministries, ministerial-level agencies, government-attached agencies and People's Committees of provinces and centrally-run cities to concentrate on implementing the proposed epidemic prevention measures, especially Directive No. 15 / CT-TTg March 27, 2020, in compliance with the instructions of the National Steering Committee for COVID-19 prevention and control, effective implementation of the following urgent measures:

1. To perform social isolation within 15 days from April 1, 2020 on a national scale according to the principle that families are separated from families and villages isolated from isolated villages and communes.  with communes and districts isolated from districts and provinces isolated from provinces, workshops and production plants, which must ensure a safe distance, wear masks, disinfect and sterilize them according to regulations.  Request people to stay at home, only to go out in case of necessity such as buying food, food, medicine, emergency, working at factories, production facilities, business and service establishments.  , essential goods are not closed, shut down and other emergencies;  strictly observe the minimum distance of 2m when communicating;  Do not concentrate more than 2 people outside the workplace, school, hospital and in public places.
The Prime Minister requested all people to voluntarily comply with the requirements, measures to prevent and control epidemics, actively participate in voluntary medical declaration, to fully implement measures to protect themselves and their families.  themselves and participate responsibly with the prevention and control activities of functional agencies and the community;  the heads of enterprises, production and trading establishments of goods and services are responsible for applying epidemic prevention and control measures at their establishments, ensuring the health and safety for laborers.

2. The Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Public Security, the People's Committee of Hanoi City and the People's Committee of Ho Chi Minh City must be speedy, determined, mustering all resources and all measures to thoroughly handle "  outbreak ”at Bach Mai Hospital (Hanoi), Buddha Bar (Ho Chi Minh City);  enlist every hour and every minute to trace and apply appropriate measures to all cases of risk, contact with patients and passers "outbreak";  continue to urge people to go back and forth through these "outbreaks" of medical reports and contact requests for testing.  Request the Ministry of Public Security to coordinate with the health sector to make a list of people involved in the activities of Truong Sinh Company at risk of infection for medical surveillance, surveillance, isolation, and rapid handling of  source of the disease.
Relevant People's Committees of provinces and cities closely coordinate with Ministries and 2 Cities to perform this task well.  Carry out family isolation, medical declaration for classification, testing and concentrated isolation if necessary for those who have been to and from Bach Mai Hospital since March 12, 2020;  assign grassroots administrations to organize close supervision at each family.
The Ministry of Public Security and the provincial People's Committee continue to urgently carry out medical examination and inspection, update the health status of people who have entered from March 8, 2020 but have not applied isolation;  make a list of people who have direct contact and close contact to classify screening, apply appropriate isolation measures (concentrated isolation, at home, accommodation establishments).

3. State agencies and units shall arrange for officials, public servants and public employees to use information technology working at home;  only those cases where it is absolutely necessary such as combat duty, duty of the agency, supply of essential goods and services, processing confidential documents and other necessary tasks as required to work at the office;  strengthen online meeting organization.  The head is responsible for the infection of officials and employees because of not strictly observing the regulations on prevention and control of epidemics at the workplace.

4. The Ministry of Transport and People's Committees of provinces and cities shall direct basically stop public passenger transport activities.  Minimize the movement from one locality to another;  stop moving from epidemic areas to other localities, except for special cases due to official duties and cases of provision of food, foodstuffs, necessities, shuttle buses for workers and experts  of businesses, transporting production materials.

5. To assign the Ministry of Health:
a) Direct hospitals to implement strict procedures and management to avoid cross-contamination in hospitals;  strictly control, require mandatory medical declaration for patients, family members, caregivers;  only one carer per patient;  stop visiting patients at health facilities.  There are strict rules on admitting patients, not allowing an infected individual to affect the operation of the entire hospital.
b) Proposing specific mechanisms and policies to support domestic enterprises in manufacturing medical equipment and instruments, especially ventilators, patient monitors, infusion machines, dialysis machines, reporting  Deputy Prime Minister Trinh Dinh Dung directed.
c) To report to the Prime Minister on options, scenarios and emergency response for epidemic emergencies in the afternoon of March 31, 2020.
d) Organize and organize the continuation of medical examination and treatment at Bach Mai Hospital (Hanoi), ensuring safety for officials, health workers and people at the request of the Steering Committee and the Ministry of Health.
d) Review and handle the recommendations of the Hanoi People's Committee, support and create conditions for Hanoi to control epidemics in the locality.

6. The Ministry of Health shall synthesize and periodically publish 2 times / day positive test results in localities, ensuring accuracy.

7. Temporarily closing the main and secondary border gates for people traveling from 00:00 on April 1, 2020 on the border lines with Laos and Cambodia.  Strictly control the entry through international border gates on road border routes;  All immigrants from Laos and Cambodia must be concentrated in isolation for 14 days.

8. The Ministry of Defense shall direct, organize and expand concentrated isolation facilities, separate new and isolated cases in order to prevent cross-contamination;  strengthening the management of trails and openings on border routes.

9. The Ministry of Public Security shall intensify the direction of ensuring order and security, preventing and combating crimes, especially in rural areas.

10. The Ministry of Finance shall direct the General Department of Customs to handle difficulties in exporting cloth masks;  Require insurance businesses not to introduce and deploy insurance packages related to COVID-19 disease.

11. The ministries, branches, localities and press agencies shall continue promoting information and propaganda in support of the people's health protection policy, rectifying a number of headlines that cause confusion and misunderstandings.  The person in charge of prevention and control of non-verbal epidemic causes panic among people

12. The Ministry of Industry and Trade and the People's Committees of localities pay attention to ensuring essential commodities, food and foodstuffs for the people.

Can someone please guide me & clarify this 100% sure!!. Is this set in law as like ......"do this & don"t argue" or is it just a recommendation by the PM.

I am getting conflicting opinions & guidance  on this from some XPATS & Vietnamese friends! Thanks for any help & guidance in advance.

goodolboy wrote:

OceanBeach92107 wrote:

NATIONWIDE QUARANTINE ***

Following this link provided through email alert by the US Embassy, Hanoi:

mnews.chinhphu.vn/story.aspx?did=391483

Can someone please guide me & clarify this 100% sure!!. Is this set in law as like ......"do this & don"t argue" or is it just a recommendation by the PM.

I am getting conflicting opinions & guidance  on this from some XPATS & Vietnamese friends! Thanks for any help & guidance in advance.

I only know I don't want to be the foreigner who gets caught treating all of this as just recommendations I'm free to ignore.

I also don't want to be responsible for spreading the virus to someone who assumes I'm being compliant when I'm not.

It seems that we (as foreigners) can choose one of two options:

1. We can get as serious as the Prime Minister and do our best to follow this guidance.

or

2. We can craft our own individual response, choosing for ourselves what we (as individuals) think is important and ignore the rest of it.

Why would someone choose #2?

That's the important question to me.

OceanBeach92107 wrote:

goodolboy wrote:

OceanBeach92107 wrote:

NATIONWIDE QUARANTINE ***

Following this link provided through email alert by the US Embassy, Hanoi:

mnews.chinhphu.vn/story.aspx?did=391483

Can someone please guide me & clarify this 100% sure!!. Is this set in law as like ......"do this & don"t argue" or is it just a recommendation by the PM.

I am getting conflicting opinions & guidance  on this from some XPATS & Vietnamese friends! Thanks for any help & guidance in advance.

I only know I don't want to be the foreigner who gets caught treating all of this as just recommendations I'm free to ignore.

I also don't want to be responsible for spreading the virus to someone who assumes I'm being compliant when I'm not.

It seems that we (as foreigners) can choose one of two options:

1. We can get as serious as the Prime Minister and do our best to follow this guidance.

or

2. We can craft our own individual response, choosing for ourselves what we (as individuals) think is important and ignore the rest of it.

Why would someone choose #2?

That's the important question to me.

What a load of waffle your reply is!! There is a big difference between your post in bold red NATIONWIDE QUARANTINE ORDER[/b][/color] & just a recommendation. An order is quite specific in my opinion IE do this & dont argue, Now I have actually taken the time to read what the PM said (using your link) I realize that the big bold red bit is something looks like you inserted yourself!!! WTF is that about???

goodolboy wrote:

OceanBeach92107 wrote:

goodolboy wrote:

Can someone please guide me & clarify this 100% sure!!. Is this set in law as like ......"do this & don"t argue" or is it just a recommendation by the PM.

I am getting conflicting opinions & guidance  on this from some XPATS & Vietnamese friends! Thanks for any help & guidance in advance.

I only know I don't want to be the foreigner who gets caught treating all of this as just recommendations I'm free to ignore.

I also don't want to be responsible for spreading the virus to someone who assumes I'm being compliant when I'm not.

It seems that we (as foreigners) can choose one of two options:

1. We can get as serious as the Prime Minister and do our best to follow this guidance.

or

2. We can craft our own individual response, choosing for ourselves what we (as individuals) think is important and ignore the rest of it.

Why would someone choose #2?

That's the important question to me.

What a load of waffle your reply is!! There is a big difference between your post in bold red NATIONWIDE QUARANTINE ORDER[/b][/color] & just a recommendation. An order is quite specific in my opinion IE do this & dont argue, Now I have actually taken the time to read what the PM said (using your link) I realize that the big bold red bit is something looks like you inserted yourself!!! WTF is that about???

GOOGLE TRANSLATION OF AN EXCERPT OF THE NOTICE ON THE OFFICIAL GOVERNMENT WEBSITE:
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The Prime Minister instructed: To quarantine the whole society from 1/4 hour nationwide
(Chinhphu.vn) - The Prime Minister has just issued Directive No. 16 / CT-TTg on the implementation of urgent measures to prevent and control COVID-19 epidemic. Accordingly, implementing social isolation within 15 days from 0:00 on 1/4/2020 on a national scale according to the principle of family isolating from families and villages isolated from villages and communes Isolation from communes and districts isolated from districts and provinces isolated from provinces, workshops and production plants must ensure a safe distance, wear masks, disinfect and disinfect according to regulations.

The contents of the Directive are as follows:
~~~~~~~
Now, in THAT context, consider everything that follows in that OFFICIAL press release on the government's OFFICIAL website.

Clambella can probably clarify the interpretation of the government statement.

OceanBeach92107 wrote:

goodolboy wrote:

OceanBeach92107 wrote:

I only know I don't want to be the foreigner who gets caught treating all of this as just recommendations I'm free to ignore.

I also don't want to be responsible for spreading the virus to someone who assumes I'm being compliant when I'm not.

It seems that we (as foreigners) can choose one of two options:

1. We can get as serious as the Prime Minister and do our best to follow this guidance.

or

2. We can craft our own individual response, choosing for ourselves what we (as individuals) think is important and ignore the rest of it.

Why would someone choose #2?

That's the important question to me.

What a load of waffle your reply is!! There is a big difference between your post in bold red NATIONWIDE QUARANTINE ORDER[/b][/color] & just a recommendation. An order is quite specific in my opinion IE do this & dont argue, Now I have actually taken the time to read what the PM said (using your link) I realize that the big bold red bit is something looks like you inserted yourself!!! WTF is that about???

GOOGLE TRANSLATION OF AN EXCERPT OF THE NOTICE ON THE OFFICIAL GOVERNMENT WEBSITE:
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The Prime Minister instructed: To quarantine the whole society from 1/4 hour nationwide
(Chinhphu.vn) - The Prime Minister has just issued Directive No. 16 / CT-TTg on the implementation of urgent measures to prevent and control COVID-19 epidemic. Accordingly, implementing social isolation within 15 days from 0:00 on 1/4/2020 on a national scale according to the principle of family isolating from families and villages isolated from villages and communes Isolation from communes and districts isolated from districts and provinces isolated from provinces, workshops and production plants must ensure a safe distance, wear masks, disinfect and disinfect according to regulations.

The contents of the Directive are as follows:
~~~~~~~
Now, in THAT context, consider everything that follows in that OFFICIAL press release on the government's OFFICIAL website.

1. To perform social isolation within 15 days from April 1, 2020 on a national scale according to the principle of family isolating from families and isolated villages from isolated villages and communes. with communes and districts isolated from districts and provinces isolated from provinces, workshops and production plants, which must ensure a safe distance, wear masks, disinfect and sterilize them according to regulations. Request people to stay at home, only to go out in case of necessity such as buying food, food, medicine, emergency, working at factories, manufacturing facilities, business and service establishments. , essential goods are not closed, shut down and other emergencies; strictly observe the minimum distance of 2m when communicating; Do not concentrate more than 2 people outside the workplace, school, hospital and in public places.

The Prime Minister requested all people to voluntarily comply with the requirements, measures to prevent and control epidemics, actively participate in voluntary medical declaration, to fully implement measures to protect themselves and their families. themselves and participate responsibly with the prevention and control activities of functional agencies and the community; the heads of enterprises, production and trading establishments of goods and services are responsible for applying epidemic prevention and control measures at their establishments, ensuring the health and safety for laborers.

Please note the bit in bold!!

Now I understand why there are people in the park & no police enforcement!!

From personal experience I discussed my plans to go to hometown last weekend but the police, when questioned, required housebound 14 day quarantine.  I thought it was extreme but then found out that my brother in law went home last weekend.  He's Vietnamese, their house is there and his wife and children live there - he stays a lot of the time in HCMC to work and has a Vinasun taxi here.  So after being there for a few days the police caught wind of it and they came to the house with the doc and the nurse, checked him out and locked him down in his house for 14 days for coming in from outside of the town.  If they are that strict with locals I'm not pushing it as a foreigner.

I am thinking about enrolling in the voluntary online health check and then hopefully using that to go to hometown in two weeks as proof in lieu of quarantine.  Can't hurt and might help.

SteinNebraska wrote:

From personal experience I discussed my plans to go to hometown last weekend but the police, when questioned, required housebound 14 day quarantine.  I thought it was extreme but then found out that my brother in law went home last weekend.  He's Vietnamese, their house is there and his wife and children live there - he stays a lot of the time in HCMC to work and has a Vinasun taxi here.  So after being there for a few days the police caught wind of it and they came to the house with the doc and the nurse, checked him out and locked him down in his house for 14 days for coming in from outside of the town.  If they are that strict with locals I'm not pushing it as a foreigner.

I am thinking about enrolling in the voluntary online health check and then hopefully using that to go to hometown in two weeks as proof in lieu of quarantine.  Can't hurt and might help.

Been doing the  voluntary online health check daily for the last 5 days maybe more. Takes about 5 minutes first time &1 minute thereafter. Cant do any harm & shoves in a little bit of my pretty boring life these days!!

goodolboy wrote:

OceanBeach92107 wrote:

goodolboy wrote:

What a load of waffle your reply is!! There is a big difference between your post in bold red NATIONWIDE QUARANTINE ORDER[/b][/color] & just a recommendation. An order is quite specific in my opinion IE do this & dont argue, Now I have actually taken the time to read what the PM said (using your link) I realize that the big bold red bit is something looks like you inserted yourself!!! WTF is that about???

GOOGLE TRANSLATION OF AN EXCERPT OF THE NOTICE ON THE OFFICIAL GOVERNMENT WEBSITE:
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The Prime Minister instructed: To quarantine the whole society from 1/4 hour nationwide
(Chinhphu.vn) - The Prime Minister has just issued Directive No. 16 / CT-TTg on the implementation of urgent measures to prevent and control COVID-19 epidemic. Accordingly, implementing social isolation within 15 days from 0:00 on 1/4/2020 on a national scale according to the principle of family isolating from families and villages isolated from villages and communes Isolation from communes and districts isolated from districts and provinces isolated from provinces, workshops and production plants must ensure a safe distance, wear masks, disinfect and disinfect according to regulations.

The contents of the Directive are as follows:
~~~~~~~
Now, in THAT context, consider everything that follows in that OFFICIAL press release on the government's OFFICIAL website.

1. To perform social isolation within 15 days from April 1, 2020 on a national scale according to the principle of family isolating from families and isolated villages from isolated villages and communes. with communes and districts isolated from districts and provinces isolated from provinces, workshops and production plants, which must ensure a safe distance, wear masks, disinfect and sterilize them according to regulations. Request people to stay at home, only to go out in case of necessity such as buying food, food, medicine, emergency, working at factories, manufacturing facilities, business and service establishments. , essential goods are not closed, shut down and other emergencies; strictly observe the minimum distance of 2m when communicating; Do not concentrate more than 2 people outside the workplace, school, hospital and in public places.

The Prime Minister requested all people to voluntarily comply with the requirements, measures to prevent and control epidemics, actively participate in voluntary medical declaration, to fully implement measures to protect themselves and their families. themselves and participate responsibly with the prevention and control activities of functional agencies and the community; the heads of enterprises, production and trading establishments of goods and services are responsible for applying epidemic prevention and control measures at their establishments, ensuring the health and safety for laborers.

Please note the bit in bold!!

Now I understand why there are people in the park & no police enforcement!!

I see what you are getting at, but I don't think that's why some Vietnamese citizens are acting clueless.

As indices mentioned, input from Ciambella would be welcome.

I *think* when the Prime Minister "requests" "voluntary" action in a directive, it is much more serious than the translation infers.

Oceanbeach

"As indices mentioned, input from Ciambella would be welcome.
I *think* when the Prime Minister "requests" "voluntary" action in a directive, it is much more serious than the translation infers."

When a Communist leader 'requests' something I take that as meaning do it or face the consequences.

Indices wrote:

Oceanbeach

"As indices mentioned, input from Ciambella would be welcome.
I *think* when the Prime Minister "requests" "voluntary" action in a directive, it is much more serious than the translation infers."

When a Communist leader 'requests' something I take that as meaning do it or face the consequences.

Well there is no enforcement round here that's for sure & the majority of people I see in the park every morning & evening jumping or tearing down the barrier tape don't seem too worried about the consequences. Never ever seen a cop round here in the year I have lived here. Its been up to the parkies to enforce the PM's request & they waved the White flag  2 days back!

goodolboy wrote:

Never ever seen a cop round here in the year I have lived here.

For a so-called "police state" the scarcity of policemen in Vietnam is amazing.  I know there are the neighborhood old guys who sit around their guardhouses drinking tea and that they may even turn you in to the higher ups, but I am talking about real cops with guns who can come when you call.

Indices wrote:

Clambella can probably clarify the interpretation of the government statement.

Instead of doing that and risking the probability of having a nuance of my personal view shading the interpretation, I'm posting my translation of an article written by Congressman Lê Thanh Vân which was published yesterday on Vietnam Net, the voice of Ministry of Information and Communications. I figure the Congressman's explanation reflects the fact much better than my interpretation.

[Headline]: 'SOCIAL ISOLATION' AND DIRECTIVE OF THE PRIME MINISTER
[Subhead]:  The directive of the head of the highest administrative agency of the State is an order.

"Following the Directive Nº15 issued on March 31, the Prime Minister issued Directive Nº16 / CT-Ttg on urgent solutions to prevent and control Covid-19 epidemic, including the concept of 'social isolation' and many implementation solutions.

"After the Instruction was issued, some people misunderstood the lockdown thus rushed out to buy food, staple, and basic necessities [while] others suggested that the concept of 'social isolation' is yet to exist in the laws.

"In view of this fact, I would like to address [the confusion with] the following [explanation]:

"Firstly, it must be confirmed that the issuance of Directive Nº16 by the Prime Minister is in accordance with the competence stipulated in Clause 2, Article 30 of the Law on the Organization of Government.

"[Even though] the Prime Minister's directive is not a legal document, it is a document that applies the law to one or some specific legal situations to run the Government's activities and the State administrative system. to ensure uniformity and transparency throughout the country. To the executive branch and its operations, the directive issued by the head of the highest administrative body of the State is an order.

"Secondly, according to the provisions of the legal documents on emergency situations, the spread of infectious diseases, the security status and safety of society in specific circumstances, the Prime Minister must issue directives to respond to all urgent developments that [the situations] present.

"Accordingly, the content of Directive 16 / CT-Ttg is specific solutions that require state agencies, collectives, and individuals nationwide to strictly comply in order to properly implement the provisions in the legal documents related to preventing, stopping and repelling the pandemic Covid-19 which is at high risk of infection in the community. This is a rapidly evolving situation, if not immediately responded, the consequences will be unpredictable.

"Third, at present time, there are some concepts of 'curfew', 'martial law', [and] 'emergency situation' in legal documents, but the declaration of such situations requires the necessary preparation and procedures which cannot be immediately implemented [due to] the variation that take place in practice. I believe the Government has assessed the situation and has prepared for the scenario whenever there are changes in the Covid-19 pandemic.

"Nevertheless, in recent days, the epidemic situation is in danger of spreading, directly threatening the health and lives of people in almost all areas of the country. The situation is not so dire that a state of emergency must be declared, but a quick response is needed with a series of appropriate solutions.  That is the reason the term 'social isolation' is used to express the urgency of handling an emerging situation. in order to preserve the health and life of all people, it is urgent that [we] must maintain a specific distance between individuals and communities, restrict temporary certain activities and behaviours.  [Not doing so] in a timely manner, bad consequences will occur.

"Those (stated in the directive) are essentially the flexible management solutions by the Prime Minister, [issued] in accordance with the application of the laws, fully consistent with the functions, tasks and powers prescribed by the Constitution and specialized laws.

"It should be understood that the application of the law is also a creative activity. It [should be] consistent with the transformation of social relations and legal situations that happen [rapidly] in practice, of which the laws cannot automatically [and specifically] regulated.

"With one accord, let's join together to crush the Covid-19 pandemic.

"Congressman Lê Thanh Vân"

Ciambella wrote:

Indices wrote:

Clambella can probably clarify the interpretation of the government statement.

Instead of doing that and risking the probability of having a nuance of my personal view shading the interpretation, I'm posting my translation of an article written by Congressman Lê Thanh Vân which was published yesterday on Vietnam Net, the voice of the Ministry of Information and Communications. I figure the Congressman's explanation reflects the fact much better than my interpretation.

[Headline]: 'SOCIAL ISOLATION' AND DIRECTIVE OF THE PRIME MINISTER
[Subhead]:  The directive of the head of the highest administrative agency of the State is an order.

"Following the Directive Nº15 issued on March 31, the Prime Minister issued Directive Nº16 / CT-Ttg on urgent solutions to prevent and control Covid-19 epidemic, including the concept of 'social isolation' and many implementation solutions.

"After the Instruction was issued, some people misunderstood the lockdown thus rushed out to buy food, staple, and basic necessities [while] others suggested that the concept of 'social isolation' is yet to exist in the laws.

"In view of this fact, I would like to address [the confusion with] the following [explanation]:

"Firstly, it must be confirmed that the issuance of Directive Nº16 by the Prime Minister is in accordance with the competence stipulated in Clause 2, Article 30 of the Law on the Organization of Government.

"[Even though] the Prime Minister's directive is not a legal document, it is a document that applies the law to one or some specific legal situations to run the Government's activities and the State administrative system. to ensure uniformity and transparency throughout the country. To the executive branch and its operations, the directive issued by the head of the highest administrative body of the State is an order.

"Secondly, according to the provisions of the legal documents on emergency situations, the spread of infectious diseases, the security status and safety of society in specific circumstances, the Prime Minister must issue directives to respond to all urgent developments that [the situations] present.

"Accordingly, the content of Directive 16 / CT-Ttg is specific solutions that require state agencies, collectives, and individuals nationwide to strictly comply in order to properly implement the provisions in the legal documents related to preventing, stopping and repelling the pandemic Covid-19 which is at high risk of infection in the community. This is a rapidly evolving situation, if not immediately responded, the consequences will be unpredictable.

"Third, at present time, there are some concepts of 'curfew', 'martial law', [and] 'emergency situation' in legal documents, but the declaration of such situations requires the necessary preparation and procedures which cannot be immediately implemented [due to] the variation that take place in practice. I believe the Government has assessed the situation and has prepared for the scenario whenever there are changes in the Covid-19 pandemic.

"Nevertheless, in recent days, the epidemic situation is in danger of spreading, directly threatening the health and lives of people in almost all areas of the country. The situation is not so dire that a state of emergency must be declared, but a quick response is needed with a series of appropriate solutions.  That is the reason the term 'social isolation' is used to express the urgency of handling an emerging situation. in order to preserve the health and life of all people, it is urgent that [we] must maintain a specific distance between individuals and communities, restrict temporary certain activities and behaviours.  [Not doing so] in a timely manner, bad consequences will occur.

"Those (stated in the directive) are essentially the flexible management solutions by the Prime Minister, [issued] in accordance with the application of the laws, fully consistent with the functions, tasks and powers prescribed by the Constitution and specialized laws.

"It should be understood that the application of the law is also a creative activity. It [should be] consistent with the transformation of social relations and legal situations that happen [rapidly] in practice, of which the laws cannot automatically [and specifically] regulated.

"With one accord, let's join together to crush the Covid-19 pandemic.

"Congressman Lê Thanh Vân"

Sorry you can call me mister stupid, but after reading that twice I am still none the wiser!
Can I ask a simple question from a simple guy..........Are the people I see from my balcony crossing the barrier to get access to the park to play football, jogging, exercising, playing kick the thingy, having little picnics etc breaking the law or not?....Its just a matter of personal interest, a yes or no please & I would be so grateful!

My block and neighbouring blocks are having karaoke parties almost every night. Basically same old, same old. Today there was an old fashioned eating and drinking get together.

But when I pulled out onto the main street to pick up a bit of food this morning it was different for the first time since this started. Most shops closed and almost no traffic.

I live about a half hour from the tourist district.

Interested people should note that there was an announcement for foreigners whose temporary visas have or will soon expire.

Schools are now closed until the 19th.

For Canadians, I got my sixth or seventh notice to come home now with a list of websites for more info, airlines to use and a lot of stuff. Register with the embassy to get these or I will post one if somebody asks.

DTiNews and Viet Nam Government Portal both have up to date news and even developing stories in English. The portal is an official Vietnamese government site.

VietCanada wrote:

My block and neighbouring blocks are having karaoke parties almost every night. Basically same old, same old. Today there was an old fashioned eating and drinking get together.

But when I pulled out onto the main street to pick up a bit of food this morning it was different for the first time since this started. Most shops closed and almost no traffic.

I live about a half hour from the tourist district.

Hi Vietcanada,
I am Q12 about 45 min from tourist areas 30min from Tan Son Nhat. I am sort of re assured by your post, I was thinking what I see her as unique. Its much quieter here but certainly nothing like a "lock down" situation & OK on moto's masks are being worn by 80% of the people but just out walking or at small coffee shops very few social distancing going on, pretty much life as normal. On a positive note difference from you I must admit have not heard a Karaoke now for over a week
Just seen your follow up post & UK gov recommending all Brits go home too, but I am better off here in my apartment & have 90% control of my life & what happens to me so for as long as I can & dont get deported I am happy in my own little world with GF taking good care of me.

"Social Isolation" (Ciambella translation in earlier post) will be extended for a full month "if necessary"

I personally interpret that as a possible expansion of the previous DIRECTIVE:

(see following post for link)

OceanBeach92107 wrote:

"Social Isolation" (Ciambella translation in earlier post) is now being extended for a full month.

I personally interpret that as an expansion of the previous DIRECTIVE:

thesaigontimes. vn/tinbaichitiet/75874/

A closer reading of the article says "if necessary"

From Báo Điện Tử Chính Phủ (VGP News), the official online newspaper of Vietnamese Government, below is my translation of yesterday's news article:

UNDERSTANDING OF SOCIAL ISOLATION REQUIREMENTS

In recent days, PM Nguyễn Xuân Phúc has issued Directives 15 and 16 on the prevention and control of COVID 19 with emphasis on the issue of social isolation.  In an interview with the press on April 2, Minister Mai Tiến Dũng, Chairman of the Government Office and Spokesperson of  the Government, said that some localities have misunderstood Directive 16, resulting in incorrect implementation.

Specifically, since April 1, some localities have conducted roadblocks, restricted people from traversing between localities, and/or suspended construction works.  Minister Mai Tiến Dũng stated that any closed-door policy was not under the PM's direction.

Regarding the travelling from one location to another, the Minister said the Government did not prohibit it, but advised people to limit leaving home.

Minister Mai Tiến Dũng assessed that the checkpoints on roads leading to the gateway of Hà Nội to measure body temperature, health check, and epidemic control are needed in order to screen those who are suspected of being infected with the virus.

[snip]

At the regular Government meeting, PM Nguyễn Xuân Phúc pointed out that social isolation is a legal situation set in place to protect people's health and life.  Social isolation means keeping social distance to cope with dangerous situations and disease outbreaks; keeping distance between people and people, communities and communities doesn't mean stopping traffic, closing doors, and social blockade. "It is important to ensure the safety of all workers", stated the PM.

In this context, we still have to maintain production and circulation of goods in safe manner especially essential goods and medical supplies, and maintain normal exports by sea and road.  We need to maximize the use of information technology to work from home while still ensuring good process and work quality.

Directive 16 is effective from April 1 to April 15, a "golden time" to minimise the spread of diseases. With drastic social isolation, we will limit the loss of people's lives. Therefore, the PM requested all levels and branches to strictly implement the guidelines and measures set by the Government; focusing on directing drastic and synchronous solutions to effectively prevent the epidemic from spreading:

- requesting people to stay home, only go out in case of necessity, strictly observe the minimum distance of 2m when communicating and not to have gatherings of more than 2 people in public places;

- requiring all people to actively observe voluntary medical reporting, to protect themselves and their families, and to participate responsibly in disease prevention activities designed by competent agencies.

According to Minister Mai Tiến Dũng, the Government still agrees to allow factories and workshops to operate but requires office staff of State administrative agencies a well as businesses to apply information technology to work from home.  However, if there is a case of infection, such workplace/s must be closed immediately to avoid cross-contamination and spreading to the community.

Explaining why no lockdown order has been issued yet when the epidemic situation has become complicated, Minister Mai Tiến Dũng emphasised that the Government is still in control of the situation so it is still necessary to see to people's daily life, production, and socio-economic issues.

[snip]

VGP News aka Viet Nam Government Portal has a button at the top to see the articles in English.
Click on the home page tab as well. There are links to government ministries, publications, all kinds of stuff.

VietCanada wrote:

VGP News aka Viet Nam Government Portal has a button at the top to see the articles in English.
Click on the home page tab as well. There are links to government ministries, publications, all kinds of stuff.

Not all articles are available in English.

VietCanada wrote:

VGP News aka Viet Nam Government Portal has a button at the top to see the articles in English.
Click on the home page tab as well. There are links to government ministries, publications, all kinds of stuff.

English language direct link:

news. chinhphu. vn

Most people access the internet using a mobile device; over 90 percent mobile internet use on a worldwide basis.

So if, while using a phone, we click on this link:

baochinhphu. vn/

...we will land on this mobile-friendly Vietnamese language version of the site:

mnews. chinhphu. vn/

THAT view doesn't seem to provide a toggle link to an English language version.

However, It does provide a link at the very bottom of the interface (Bản đầy đủ) to change from mobile-friendly view to regular desktop view in the Vietnamese language.

The direct link to that view from a mobile device:

baochinhphu. vn/?fullversion=1

When you click on the "English" tab at the top right of the page, you switch to the English language version of the desktop view.

news. chinhphu. vn

Selecting the English at the top of the page sends you to that link.
IOW clicking on English gives you the English language version of the page.
I'm not sure what the other poster meant by 'not all articles'.

Maybe the poster could give an example?

VietCanada wrote:

Selecting the English at the top of the page sends you to that link.
IOW clicking on English gives you the English language version of the page.
I'm not sure what the other poster meant by 'not all articles'.

Maybe the poster could give an example?

Maybe you can use the quote function to show to whom you are replying?

Thanks!

Sorry!, Ciambella said that not all articles are in English.

I don't read every article just new ones related to the current situation
Also every article on the page is in English. Scrolling verifies that.

If an article in Vietnamese doesn't appear on the English page, I wouldn't notice that.

VietCanada wrote:

Sorry!, Ciambella said that not all articles are in English.

Also every article on the page is in English. Scrolling verifies that.

If an article in Vietnamese doesn't appear on the English page, I wouldn't notice that.

Of course every article *on the English side* is in English; when I said not *all articles* are available in English, I meant not all articles *in* the newspaper (the Vietnamese side, because that's the newspaper's original language) are available on the English side.

VietCanada wrote:

Maybe the poster could give an example?

There's an article about the Deputy Director of Hương Khê General Hospital being suspended for violating the rules of social distance and no large gatherings.  It appears on the VIetnamese side but not the English side, either because no one cared to translate it or no one thought it would be of interest to expats.

The last article I translated was not the same one on the English side either.  The gist was the same, but not the details.

Ciambella wrote:

There's an article about the Deputy Director of Hương Khê General Hospital being suspended for violating the social distance rules.  It appears on the VIetnamese side but not the English side, ether because no one cared to translate it, or no one thought it would be of interest to expats.

Not rebutting Ciambella's claim because she is correct on that website.  But I found it interesting that the article or the equivalent was on Tuoi Tre News today.  I thought it was of interest to expats anytime an official thinks they (or their family) is above the law.  For those that haven't seen it, they had a motorcade to his son's wedding.  I'm sure it was a big deal and I'm sure it was planned for many months.  But, many weddings have been cancelled in US and other countries over the virus and because of social distancing rules.  They thought they were above that.

https://tuoitrenews.vn/news/society/202 … 53835.html

Im not sure anyone really cares a hoot about pollution levels as tne world as we know it is falling apart at the seams

One thing to consider is that although there may be "official" government sites, the general press is pretty tightly watched in Vietnam.  I'm sure that is not a revelation to anyone reading this, including any government monitors of this site.  (   Hello there.)  As such, even the English language press can't stray too far from the official position, or if they do it will be subject to public correction before long.  Conversely, I wouldn't trust anything I read on any social media like Facebook (or even Expat.com) unless there were links to publicly available sources.

goodolboy wrote:

Ciambella wrote:

Indices wrote:

Clambella can probably clarify the interpretation of the government statement.

Instead of doing that and risking the probability of having a nuance of my personal view shading the interpretation, I'm posting my translation of an article written by Congressman Lê Thanh Vân which was published yesterday on Vietnam Net, the voice of the Ministry of Information and Communications. I figure the Congressman's explanation reflects the fact much better than my interpretation.

[Headline]: 'SOCIAL ISOLATION' AND DIRECTIVE OF THE PRIME MINISTER
[Subhead]:  The directive of the head of the highest administrative agency of the State is an order.

"Following the Directive Nº15 issued on March 31, the Prime Minister issued Directive Nº16 / CT-Ttg on urgent solutions to prevent and control Covid-19 epidemic, including the concept of 'social isolation' and many implementation solutions.

"After the Instruction was issued, some people misunderstood the lockdown thus rushed out to buy food, staple, and basic necessities [while] others suggested that the concept of 'social isolation' is yet to exist in the laws.

"In view of this fact, I would like to address [the confusion with] the following [explanation]:

"Firstly, it must be confirmed that the issuance of Directive Nº16 by the Prime Minister is in accordance with the competence stipulated in Clause 2, Article 30 of the Law on the Organization of Government.

"[Even though] the Prime Minister's directive is not a legal document, it is a document that applies the law to one or some specific legal situations to run the Government's activities and the State administrative system. to ensure uniformity and transparency throughout the country. To the executive branch and its operations, the directive issued by the head of the highest administrative body of the State is an order.

"Secondly, according to the provisions of the legal documents on emergency situations, the spread of infectious diseases, the security status and safety of society in specific circumstances, the Prime Minister must issue directives to respond to all urgent developments that [the situations] present.

"Accordingly, the content of Directive 16 / CT-Ttg is specific solutions that require state agencies, collectives, and individuals nationwide to strictly comply in order to properly implement the provisions in the legal documents related to preventing, stopping and repelling the pandemic Covid-19 which is at high risk of infection in the community. This is a rapidly evolving situation, if not immediately responded, the consequences will be unpredictable.

"Third, at present time, there are some concepts of 'curfew', 'martial law', [and] 'emergency situation' in legal documents, but the declaration of such situations requires the necessary preparation and procedures which cannot be immediately implemented [due to] the variation that take place in practice. I believe the Government has assessed the situation and has prepared for the scenario whenever there are changes in the Covid-19 pandemic.

"Nevertheless, in recent days, the epidemic situation is in danger of spreading, directly threatening the health and lives of people in almost all areas of the country. The situation is not so dire that a state of emergency must be declared, but a quick response is needed with a series of appropriate solutions.  That is the reason the term 'social isolation' is used to express the urgency of handling an emerging situation. in order to preserve the health and life of all people, it is urgent that [we] must maintain a specific distance between individuals and communities, restrict temporary certain activities and behaviours.  [Not doing so] in a timely manner, bad consequences will occur.

"Those (stated in the directive) are essentially the flexible management solutions by the Prime Minister, [issued] in accordance with the application of the laws, fully consistent with the functions, tasks and powers prescribed by the Constitution and specialized laws.

"It should be understood that the application of the law is also a creative activity. It [should be] consistent with the transformation of social relations and legal situations that happen [rapidly] in practice, of which the laws cannot automatically [and specifically] regulated.

"With one accord, let's join together to crush the Covid-19 pandemic.

"Congressman Lê Thanh Vân"

Sorry you can call me mister stupid, but after reading that twice I am still none the wiser!
Can I ask a simple question from a simple guy..........Are the people I see from my balcony crossing the barrier to get access to the park to play football, jogging, exercising, playing kick the thingy, having little picnics etc breaking the law or not?....Its just a matter of personal interest, a yes or no please & I would be so grateful!

Yes...

tuoitrenews. vn/news/society/20200403/hospital-administrator-suspended-over-sons-wedding-motorcade-during-vietnams-social-distancing-period/53835.html

THIGV wrote:

One thing to consider is that although there may be "official" government sites, the general press is pretty tightly watched in Vietnam. ... Conversely, I wouldn't trust anything I read on any social media like Facebook (or even Expat.com) unless there were links to publicly available sources.

I don't trust information on social media either, but in some cases, they served their purpose.  The government has been following "tips" on FB and the results were satisfactory.  The most recent case was the suspension of the Deputy Director of Hương Khê General Hospital in Hà Tĩnh, which happened only because someone posted a photo of the parade of wedding party cars on FB.

Clarification today, for those who need it:

news. chinhphu. vn/Home/COVID19fight-All-citizens-shall-have-to-wear-masks-in-outdoor-places/20204/39552.vgp

(From the article)

COVID19-fight: All citizens shall have to wear masks in outdoor places

21:48 | 04/04/2020

VGP – Citizens are asked to stay at home in a bid to reduce risk of contracting the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) amid rising infections since March 6.

They should only go out to buy food, medicine and other essential things, or for emergencies, medical treatment, natural disasters, or go to work in State agencies, military units, diplomatic missions, factories, production facilities and businesses that involve trade in "essential" goods and services.

As they leave home, they must wear face masks, wash hands with soap or sanitizer and keep two-meter distance with others.

A gathering of more than two persons are not allowed in public places or outside offices, schools, hospitals.

Viet Nam is undergoing a nationwide social distancing campaign lasting until April 15 as this is the golden time to contain the spread of the virus to community.

The nation has confirmed 240 infection cases, of whom 90 have bee cleared of the virus and discharged from hospitals.

By Quang Minh

OceanBeach92107 wrote:

Clarification today, for those who need it:

news. chinhphu. vn/Home/COVID19fight-All-citizens-shall-have-to-wear-masks-in-outdoor-places/20204/39552.vgp

(From the article)

COVID19-fight: All citizens shall have to wear masks in outdoor places

21:48 | 04/04/2020

VGP – Citizens are asked to stay at home in a bid to reduce risk of contracting the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) amid rising infections since March 6.

They should only go out to buy food, medicine and other essential things, or for emergencies, medical treatment, natural disasters, or go to work in State agencies, military units, diplomatic missions, factories, production facilities and businesses that involve trade in "essential" goods and services.

As they leave home, they must wear face masks, wash hands with soap or sanitizer and keep two-meter distance with others.

A gathering of more than two persons are not allowed in public places or outside offices, schools, hospitals.

Viet Nam is undergoing a nationwide social distancing campaign lasting until April 15 as this is the golden time to contain the spread of the virus to community.

The nation has confirmed 240 infection cases, of whom 90 have bee cleared of the virus and discharged from hospitals.

By Quang Minh

Wow thats a very nice stats compare with UK where 708 dead in one day...I hope they are acurate...
Well not mentioning US ...sad thing...Looks like Vietnam is the place to be guys?

AUStan wrote:

Looks like Vietnam is the place to be guys?

It does look like Vietnam is doing it right.  The only thing is that lifting restrictions by 15 April will probably be too soon.  Restrictions may need to stay on until 30 April or even well into May.   .....And yes I have to agree, the US has truly messed it up.  Our governmental structure means that instead of one policy, we have 50.

THIGV wrote:

AUStan wrote:

Looks like Vietnam is the place to be guys?

It does look like Vietnam is doing it right.  The only thing is that lifting restrictions by 15 April will probably be too soon.  Restrictions may need to stay on until 30 April or even well into May.   .....And yes I have to agree, the US has truly messed it up.  Our governmental structure means that instead of one policy, we have 50.

Not only US,

Check points have been set up in HCMC. People are being fined 200,000 VND on the spot.

VietCanada wrote:

Check points have been set up in HCMC. People are being fined 200,000 VND on the spot.

I read that on the news for Hanoi, but hadn't heard or read anything for HCMC yet.

OceanBeach92107 wrote:

In Vietnamese language.

Use android Chrome browser translation option OR share with Google Translate app to read in English:

https://ncov.moh.gov.vn/

Reposted in case anyone wants to check for the most recent official information

I definitely saw an article saying HCMC had created 65 checkpoints and something else but I can't find it now on any of the sites I get news. I should have linked it.

In any event people in HCMC will soon find out if it's true or not.

Googled it. It was on the Saigon Times but I can't find it now.

HCMC to set up 62 coronavirus checkpoints Saturday,  4/4/2020, 15:25   The Saigon Times

" HCMC – HCMC will set up 62 checkpoints throughout the city to protect its residents from the Covid-19 pandemic, Chairman Nguyen Thanh Phong said at a meeting at the city’s press center on April 3.

There will be 16 main checkpoints and 46 auxiliary checkpoints set up to help forces control the outbreak and enforce preventive measures among residents. However, it is necessary to make people understand that this is not a lockdown, Phong said.

Also, the chairman asked local police to strengthen crime prevention and the fight against crime during this month. Authorities from all levels should increase monitoring to prevent gasoline hoarding and deal with people who do not wear face masks in public places. The city will also strictly oversee those coming together in groups of more than two people.

According to a report issued by the local government, the city, since March 9, has seen 50 Covid-19 infection cases, and three other positive cases are awaiting an announcement by the Ministry of Health. Of this figure, 18 persons have been discharged from hospital."