Ministry of Health launches two information channels on nCoV epidemic

The Ministry of Health on Fe officially launched a news site on the acute respiratory infection caused by the novel coronavirus (nCoV) on its web portal, at https://ncov.moh.gov.vn/, and an information app on the epidemic, named ‘Suc Khoe Viet Nam’ (Vietnam Health) on February 8.

The interface of the MOH's news site on the nCoV epidemic.
The interface of the MOH's news site on the nCoV epidemic.

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These two channels aim to keep the people updated on the current situation of the nCoV disease, as well as to equip them with prevention and control knowledge through instructions and recommendations from the qualified health facilities, thus helping to protect themselves and the community.

The launch of the channels contributes to providing accurate, comprehensive and diverse information on the nCoV epidemic; enabling the people and medical staff to proactively cope with the nCoV-related circumstances; as well as repelling ‘fake news’ and unfounded rumors that cause confusion and unnecessary anxiety for the public.

The https://ncov.moh.gov.vn/ website will serve as an official information channel on the health sector’s direction documents and activities in response to the nCoV outbreak.

Meanwhile, the ‘Suc Khoe Viet Nam’ app, developed by the Viettel Business Solutions Corporation, is available on Android and iOS platforms for both smartphones and tablets. In addition to the function of providing the latest information on the nCoV epidemic in Vietnam, the app allows users to self-assess their risks of nCoV infection through a multiple-choice questionnaire.

Earlier on February 7, the Ministry of Finance issued Decision No. 155/QD-BTC on the promulgation of the list of goods items subject to import tariff exemption in service of the nCoV epidemic prevention and control.

Accordingly, the tax-free items include medical masks, disinfectant hand sanitizer (in the form of gel or liquid), raw materials for the manufacturing of medical masks, antiseptic water (disinfectants in liquid form), supplies and other necessary equipment, and epidemic prevention suits (pants, shirts, glasses, medical masks, helmets, gloves and shoes).

The decision is effective from the date of its signing until the date when the epidemic is declared over by the authorised agencies.