In an effort to strengthen the legal foundation and national preparedness against health threats, the Ministry of Health has issued Decision No. 1965/QD-BYT establishing an updated list of infectious diseases. This classification was drawn up as a concrete step in implementing the Law on Disease Prevention, which will officially take effect on July 1, 2026.
This classification system divides diseases into three categories—A, B, and C—based on the level of risk, speed of transmission, and impact on public health. Group A includes 15 extremely dangerous diseases with a high risk of death, such as Ebola, MERS-CoV, and various types of zoonotic influenza. Meanwhile, groups B and C include dozens of other diseases, including Covid-19, tuberculosis, as well as various viral and bacterial infections requiring continuous surveillance.
This regulatory update marks a shift in national health policy paradigm, moving from a 'treatment' orientation toward a 'proactive prevention' strategy. The new law not only regulates infectious diseases, but also expands its scope to address non-communicable diseases, mental disorders, and community nutrition enhancement through more sustainable funding.
Health experts emphasize that alongside strict epidemiological surveillance, vaccination remains the most crucial instrument for building community immunity. Accessible vaccination through various healthcare centers is expected to curb transmission rates, reduce the burden on the national medical system, and guarantee citizens' rights to comprehensive health protection.
