Scorching Heatwave in Northern Vietnam Sends Multiple to Hospital, One in Critical Condition

As northern Vietnam battles through one of its most intense heatwaves in years, hospitals are reporting a surge in emergency admissions linked to heatstroke and related complications. In Phú Thọ province alone, seven people were rushed to the hospital in a single day—one of them in critical condition.

According to Dr. Nguyễn Thanh Thủy, Deputy Head of Emergency at Cẩm Khê Medical Center, all seven patients were outdoor agricultural workers exposed to prolonged extreme heat. They were admitted on June 1 after suffering from heat exhaustion and sunstroke. Many arrived with severe fatigue, muscle cramps, and involuntary spasms in their limbs.

“This is the first time we’ve had so many heatstroke cases in one day,” Dr. Thủy noted.

The most serious case involved a 65-year-old woman who had worked in the fields from 9 a.m. until she collapsed around 11 a.m. She was found unconscious, with a high fever of 39.5°C (103.1°F), shallow breathing, rapid heart rate, and dangerously low blood pressure (80/50 mmHg). Upon arrival at the emergency room, she was in a coma with impaired reflexes.

Doctors immediately intubated her, placed her on mechanical ventilation, and began cooling and fluid replacement therapy. After five hours of intensive care, her vital signs stabilized and she was transferred to a higher-level hospital for continued treatment.

The remaining six patients were treated with electrolyte replacement, rehydration, and body cooling. Most are now in stable condition and under observation.

Extreme Heat Grips Northern Vietnam

Temperatures in provinces such as Hanoi, Phú Thọ, Bắc Ninh, Bắc Giang, and Hòa Bình have surged above 40°C (104°F) in recent days. With humidity levels plummeting to 40–45% and little wind, conditions have become oppressive, particularly in the afternoons as heat radiates from concrete and asphalt surfaces.

Meteorologists warn that more heatwaves are likely in June, with average temperatures in northern Vietnam expected to be 0.5–1°C higher than seasonal norms.

Health Risks and Safety Precautions

Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, cardiovascular collapse, and in severe cases, multi-organ failure. According to medical experts, once body temperature rises too high, critical systems such as the heart, lungs, and nervous system begin to malfunction—potentially fatally.

To prevent heat-related illnesses, health authorities urge the public to:

• Avoid extended outdoor activity, especially under direct sunlight
• Stay hydrated, even when not thirsty
• Wear protective gear such as wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and breathable clothing
• Take frequent breaks in shaded or cool areas
• Ventilate workspaces, especially in factories, workshops, and underground facilities

What Foreign Residents and Travelers Should Know

Foreigners living in or traveling to northern Vietnam should take extra precautions during this heatwave. Those engaging in outdoor tourism, cycling, or fieldwork are especially vulnerable. Keep an eye on local weather updates, avoid peak heat hours (10 a.m. – 4 p.m.), and seek medical attention immediately if experiencing signs of heatstroke: dizziness, confusion, nausea, muscle cramps, or fainting.

Stay Safe, Stay Cool

As Vietnam braces for more extreme weather, awareness and prevention are key to staying healthy. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, taking the heat seriously can save lives.

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Source: Vietnam Insider