Proactive Shield for Preventing Seasonal Respiratory Diseases

The seasonal transition with sudden changes in temperature and humidity weakens the immune system, creating conditions for viruses and bacteria to thrive. Older adults, young children, pregnant women, and people with underlying conditions are groups prone to common respiratory illnesses such as seasonal flu, colds, bronchitis, pneumonia, asthma or exacerbated COPD. If not properly monitored and treated, the disease can progress severely, cause dangerous complications and increase the risk of hospitalization.

According to Associate Professor Dr. Hồ Ngọc Lợi – Head of Vaccination Unit at the University of Medicine and Pharmacy Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City (BV ĐHYD), everyday measures such as keeping the body warm, wearing masks in public, avoiding polluted environments, and regular hand hygiene are all important. Additionally, vaccination is an effective and proactive preventive measure, helping the body develop immunity ready to combat disease‑causing agents, reducing the risk of infection and limiting severity when illness occurs. Administering vaccines against flu, pneumococcus, and other respiratory diseases also contributes to creating a “community shield” protecting high‑risk groups.

In the ground‑floor lobby of area A at BV ĐHYD, a health counseling program titled “Preventing Respiratory Diseases During Seasonal Transition” attracted a large number of patients and community members. The event, organized by the Media Center in collaboration with the Vaccination Unit, with the support of Pfizer Vietnam and Be Group, provided updated medical information and guided personalized vaccination schedules suitable for each target group.

In addition to professional sharing, the public received answers to questions about vaccination safety, how to handle common post‑vaccination reactions, and were instructed on using the UMC Care app to schedule vaccinations, receive reminders, and conveniently manage health records, helping them proactively protect themselves at all times.

Seasonal transitions are always a sensitive period for respiratory illnesses. Proactive and adequate vaccination will help reduce the risk of illness, limit complications, and contribute to community protection. BV ĐHYD will continue to accompany the public in disease prevention strategies and sustainable health care.