When COVID-19 struck in early 2020, Vietnam responded swiftly with a mix of strict measures, adaptable policies, and public engagement. By prioritizing transparent communication and community involvement, Vietnam successfully limited COVID-19’s impact and achieved one of the world’s highest vaccination rates. This is an excerpt from our contributing chapter to the book “Risk communication and COVID-19: Governmental communication and management of pandemic“, published by Routledge.
Rapid Action and Early Containment
Vietnam’s initial steps were firm and fast. After detecting its first case in January 2020, the government closed borders, mandated quarantines, and implemented a nationwide social distancing campaign. For months, there were no new cases, and public health measures like mask mandates and curfews minimized risks. These early actions laid the groundwork for the country’s phased COVID-19 response strategy.
The government defined clear response phases:
- Initial Containment – Rapid shutdowns and lockdowns to isolate cases.
- Easing of Restrictions – Reopening with caution.
- Mass Vaccination – Launching the largest vaccination drive in Vietnamese history in mid-2021.
- Living with COVID-19 – Adapting to life with the virus through preventive measures.
Each phase had tailored actions to balance public health needs with economic stability, with a constant focus on keeping the public informed.
Overcoming Vaccine Hesitancy
Vaccination wasn’t immediately popular, especially among some demographics. However, by enlisting the support of politicians, health experts, and military personnel, the government launched an inclusive vaccination campaign that made vaccines accessible and addressed concerns directly. Education campaigns, which highlighted vaccine safety and effectiveness, led to one of the world’s highest rates of vaccination across all age groups by late 2021.
Communication: A Key to Public Trust
Vietnam’s communication approach was both widespread and consistent. Daily updates came from health officials and were shared on multiple platforms like Zalo, Facebook, and YouTube, reaching both urban and rural areas. Even outdoor loudspeakers were used to ensure everyone, including those without digital access, stayed informed.
Social media campaigns like #ONhaVanVui (#StayingHomeIsFun) promoted a sense of community, with influencers encouraging people to follow safety protocols. This effective use of digital outreach built public trust, reinforcing compliance with health guidelines and vaccine drives.
Combating Misinformation
Vietnam faced significant misinformation challenges, which the government countered by enforcing fines for “fake news” and ensuring timely, verified information reached the public. Key social media platforms and influencers collaborated with the government to spread accurate health updates, creating a united front against misinformation. By maintaining clear, unified messaging, officials ensured that people understood the need for collective action.
A Model for Crisis Management
Vietnam’s COVID-19 response underscores the power of coordinated action and community trust. By making clear, consistent communication a priority, the government strengthened public trust and navigated each pandemic phase effectively. The collective mindset, echoed through the slogan “Fighting the pandemic like fighting the enemy,” mobilized people nationwide, fostering a united effort rooted in Vietnam’s strong sense of resilience.
Vietnam’s experience offers a blueprint for how countries can manage health crises through proactive leadership and clear communication. With adaptability, transparent updates, and community involvement, Vietnam set an example of an effective pandemic response for the world.
Reference
Ly-Le, T. M., Le, V. T., & Nguyen, T. T. (2024). Vietnam: Dynamic response and communication strategy in the COVID-19 pandemic. In I. Coman, M. Gregor & D. Lilleker (Eds.), Risk communication and COVID-19: Governmental communication and management of pandemic (pp. 203-215). Routledge. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781003401681-22