Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh speaks at a government meeting (Photo: VGP)

Localities that are in social distancing under Directive No.16 must take prompt, necessary measures so that people can feel secure and absolutely do not allow people to move out of their residences after July 31 until the social distancing period is over (except for those authorized by the government) in the spirit of “people stay where they are,” according to the official dispatch.

Efforts should be made to well organize the care and treatment network for people infected with SARS-CoV-2 virus, minimizing deaths. Food aid must be delivered immediately to poor workers and those who lost their income or no longer have reserves; do not leave people without food or clothing. Vaccinations must be organized quickly, for the right people, safely and effectively.

The provinces and centrally-run cities that are in social distancing will continue to impose social distancing measures under Directive 16 for an additional 14 days. Provinces, where the pandemic is controlled, can relax the social distancing regulations by areas within the province.