Saigon identifies new COVID-19 church cluster

Saigon is now facing a new COVID-19 cluster which originated from a church named Giáo Phái Truyền Giáo Phục Hưng. This is the most recent update since an outbreak was identified in a food lane in District 3.

The cluster has 24 cases linked to the church in total, 21 of which were announced this morning, on 27th May 2021.

Here’s a summary of what we know so far on the developing case.

Saigon’s COVID-19 church cluster has over 20 linked cases

On the evening of 26th May, Ho Chi Minh Center For Disease Control (HCDC) registered 2 domestic cases who are both members at a church in Go Vap District. This church, namely Giáo Phái Truyền Giáo Phục Hưng, also was the source of one COVID-19 case found on the same evening.

According to SGGP, these 3 church members tested positive after having check-ups at hospitals.

All other church members have been traced and placed under quarantine.


Image credit: SGGP

The areas where they reside have been placed under lockdown and are designated as quarantine zones.

On 27th May, HCDC announced 21 new domestic cases that are all linked to the church, bringing the total cluster tally to 24.

Over 6,000 cases since the pandemic began

As of today, Vietnam has reported 6,086 virus cases since the beginning of the pandemic.

Bac Giang and Bac Ninh have been the most badly affected since the new wave hit in late April, with daily caseloads amounting to three-digit figures.


Image credit: Tuoi Tre Online

To curb the virus’s spread, authorities have set up test stations in hot spots and imposed stringent restrictions.

Tourist attractions have closed temporarily, while F&B venues have switched to selling only take-outs.

Let’s wear our masks & refrain from going out

After months of normality, Saigon is again facing an increase in infections. Even though social restrictions are in place, caseloads are still on the upward trajectory.

Until all clusters have been snuffed out and infections treated, let’s refrain from going out when possible and wear masks at all times to stay safe.

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Cover image adapted from: Tuoi Tre Online and Thanh Nien

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