HANOI, May 20 (Xinhua) -- The Vietnamese Ministry of Health has instructed hospitals across the country to prepare necessary facilities, isolation areas and medical supplies to accommodate COVID-19 patients in the event of a surge in cases, the Vietnam News Agency reported on Tuesday.

Healthcare facilities have been directed to strengthen infection prevention measures, particularly those targeting respiratory transmission, to minimize the risk of disease spread within medical examination and treatment areas.

The ministry also emphasized the need to implement measures to protect high-risk groups, including pregnant women, patients with underlying health conditions, those with severe illnesses and the elderly.

Since the beginning of this year, Vietnam has reported 148 new COVID-19 cases across 27 provinces and cities, according to the ministry.