Hanoi, 25 localities named Covid safe zones

A resolution on Covid-19 adaptation issued earlier this month categorized different areas into four levels based on their coronavirus risk. Level 1 areas carry the lowest risks and Level 4, the highest.

Criteria to classify areas are determined by the Ministry of Health based on the metrics of community transmission, vaccination and Covid-19 treatment.

"Safe zones" (Level 1) comprise capital Hanoi, Ba Ria-Vung Tau, Bac Giang, Bac Kan, Binh Thuan, Cao Bang, Dien Bien, Dong Nai, Ha Giang, Hai Phong, Hoa Binh, Kon Tum, Lai Chau, Lang Son, Lao Cai, Ninh Binh, Phu Yen, Quang Ninh, Soc Trang, Son La, Tay Ninh, Thai Binh, Thai Nguyen, Tra Vinh, Tuyen Quang and Yen Bai.

A total 37 other localities are considered to have moderate coronavirus risks (Level 2). They include Da Nang, Can Tho and Ho Chi Minh City.

No localities have been categorized as Level 3 or 4 yet, though several districts and communes are listed as belonging to these high-risk zones.

Level 1 areas could theoretically allow all services and activities to resume as normal alongside Covid prevention measures. These include food and beverage establishments, malls, hotels, religious institutions and movie theaters, among others.

As areas ascend to levels with higher-risks, services and activities would be restricted, even banned outright. Level 2 areas in particular would limit large gatherings either indoor or outdoor, and businesses and services with high coronavirus risks like dance clubs, karaoke parlors, beauty parlors and bars would either be restricted or suspended.