Free medical aid for flood-affected communities

After the floods, residents in affected areas faced serious physical, mental, and health challenges. To support them, provincial medical facilities and vaccination clinics have organized free check-ups and vaccinations.

On November 24, the Institute of Vaccines and Medical Biologicals (IVAC) launched a free tetanus vaccination program for people in flooded areas and rescue workers. From early morning, crowds gathered at SAFPO Nha Trang and Suoi Dau to register—some returning from rescue work, others with fresh wounds from cleaning their homes.

Free tetanus vaccination at SAFPO Nha Trang Vaccination Room.

Le The Dieu (Tay Nha Trang Ward) said, “My house was deeply flooded. After the water receded, while cleaning the house, I slipped and fell, hitting my head on the floor and had to get 7 stitches. My family members also had scratches on their arms and legs, so the whole family went to get vaccinated to stay safe. In these difficult times, IVAC’s free tetanus vaccination program is both compassionate and truly meaningful.”

Many residents faced similar risks while cleaning flood damage, exposed to debris and sharp objects. Hoang Manh Tuan from Tay Nha Trang said, “I stepped on something sharp while cleaning, so I came for a shot on November 25. It took only 10 minutes; I’ll return next month for the second dose.”

According to IVAC, about 400 people received free tetanus shots on the first day, with 300 vaccinated at the SAFPO Nha Trang clinic and the remainder at SAFPO Suoi Dau. On November 25, the number of people coming to the 2 vaccination locations increased to about 500 - 700 people. To meet the surge in demand, IVAC expanded staffing to support the program. Dr. Do Thi Nhan, consultant at the SAFPO Nha Trang clinic, noted, ‘On November 25–26, we suspended vaccine services to prioritize free tetanus shots for flood-affected residents, ensuring quick access.”

In addition to the free vaccination, the Provincial Center for Reproductive Health Care also offered prenatal check-ups, ultrasounds, and vitamins at no cost to pregnant women in flood-affected areas, helping them monitor their health and prevent malnutrition after the disruption caused by the floods.

On November 24 and 25, 15 pregnant women came to the center for free check-ups and supplements. Dr. Do Thi Thanh Thuy, Provincial Reproductive Health Care Center said, "The program will last until the end of November for all pregnant women, regardless of age. For those unable to attend, we are ready to provide phone consultations.’”

The post-flood program of free pregnancy check-ups and vaccinations not only safeguards timely health protection, but also reflects the care and support of the provincial health sector and the community through the hard times.

The free tetanus vaccination program will continue until December 6 at two locations: SAFPO Nha Trang Vaccination Room (No. 8 Pasteur, Nha Trang Ward) and SAFPO Suoi Dau Vaccination Room (National Highway 1, Suoi Dau Commune). Meanwhile, the program offering free prenatal check-ups, ultrasounds, and vitamins for flood-affected pregnant women will run until November 30 at the Provincial Reproductive Health Care Center, 36 Yet Kieu, Nha Trang Ward.

C.D

Translated by N.T