Vietnam family of three nearly dies from bồ kết steam therapy

On 4–5 August, a family in Ia Nan commune, Gia Lai Province attempted a traditional steam treatment using bồ kết fruit on their 10‑day‑old infant. The house was sealed and the air‑conditioner was on, causing the occupants to become semi‑conscious and struggle to breathe. The mother discovered the smoke, called nearby residents for help, and the family was rushed to Đức Cơ Health Center, where the parents and baby were hospitalized in a critical but stable condition.

Health officials warned that folk steam practices for infants must be performed in well‑ventilated spaces and that any sign of suffocation requires immediate removal from the steam room, loosening of clothing, and prompt medical attention.