Strategic cooperation for public health, raising awareness of personal hygiene

The situation of infectious diseases is unpredictable.

In recent years, infectious diseases have posed many challenges to the health system. According to statistics from the Ministry of Health, as of April 10, 2024, the country recorded more than 10,000 cases of hand, foot and mouth disease; an increase of 2.3 times compared to the same period. Recent storms and floods have also severely affected the northern provinces, posing a potential risk of environmental pollution and disease outbreaks.

This highlights the importance of close monitoring and strengthening of preventive measures, of which handwashing with soap is the simplest, most cost-effective and effective action.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), washing hands with soap properly can reduce the transmission of germs by up to 35%. Whether in hospitals, schools or in everyday interactions, this habit contributes to better health and a safer world for everyone.

Awareness of personal hygiene has increased over the past 10 years

Over the past decade, Vietnamese people’s awareness of personal hygiene has increased significantly. Continuous communication campaigns from the Ministry of Health and partners, such as Unilever with its Lifebuoy brand, have contributed to promoting handwashing habits and improving personal hygiene. This effort is particularly evident through community education programs, especially in high-risk environments such as schools and public places.

The rally in response to Global Handwashing Day 2024 was jointly organized by the Ministry of Health, the People's Committee of Da Nang City, the Vietnam Women's Union and Unilever.

According to statistics, the rate of people washing their hands after using the toilet has doubled compared to 2012, currently reaching about 90.6%. This result is thanks to the close cooperation between State agencies and businesses, especially the companionship of Unilever and the Ministry of Health.

Typical campaigns such as "Handwashing with soap - For a healthy Vietnam" have reached millions of people, providing free soap and handwashing materials for children. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Unilever quickly launched the "Stay Strong Vietnam" campaign, providing more than 2 million hygiene products and implementing creative communication activities, contributing to raising awareness about personal hygiene in the context of the epidemic.

29-year sustainable journey for Vietnamese people's health

These practical activities have been carried out continuously and regularly for 29 years since 1995, not only protecting current health but also building a sustainable foundation for the future. 2024 continues to mark Unilever's sustainable commitment through meaningful and practical programs.

One of the focuses during this period is educating the community about hygiene and disease prevention. Every year, Unilever, along with the Lifebuoy brand and the Pasteur Institute in Ho Chi Minh City, maintain disease warning programs and equip parents with knowledge on how to take care of their children's health. This June, the "Summer Disease Prevention - Healthy Children, Don't Miss a Fun Summer" talk show series raised awareness among many families about preventing common summer diseases in children.

Cultural activities in response to Global Handwashing Day 2024.

In 2024, Unilever and Lifebuoy will also cooperate with the Vietnam Young Physicians Association to implement the program "For a Healthier Vietnam", organizing medical examinations, consultations, and free medicine distribution in 30 provinces and cities. In Vinh Bao district, Hai Phong, nearly 1,000 people were examined and treated by a team of experienced doctors; 33 gifts were given to the elderly and students in difficult circumstances.

Not stopping at health programs, Unilever also aims for sustainable development through the program "Accompanying women to build 3 clean families", helping to equip knowledge and provide hygiene products to thousands of women in 7 provinces and cities.

Unilever’s efforts have laid the foundation for a healthier future, towards sustainable changes in hygiene behaviour. The impressive results achieved from the cooperation with the Ministry of Health are a testament to Unilever’s long-term commitment to raising awareness and improving living conditions for millions of Vietnamese people, building a strong common home.

Ha An

Source: https://vtcnews.vn/hop-tac-chien-luoc-vi-suc-khoe-cong-dong-nang-cao-y-thuc-ve-sinh-ca-nhan-ar905177.html