The Ministry of Health in Vietnam is taking significant steps to accelerate the rollout of the pneumococcal vaccine, Prevenar 13, as part of its expanded immunization program. On September 8, a meeting was convened at the Ministry's headquarters to discuss and finalize plans for the vaccine's introduction, which has been procured through UNICEF.

The Central Institute for Hygiene and Epidemiology has purchased 331,800 doses of the Prevenar 13 vaccine, which is expected to be administered to approximately 165,900 children under the age of one. This initiative is crucial as the vaccine will be provided free of charge under the national immunization program, ensuring that children are protected from pneumococcal diseases that can lead to severe health complications.

During the meeting, Deputy Ministers of Health, including Nguyen Thi Lien Huong, Le Duc Luan, and Nguyen Tri Thuc, emphasized the importance of adhering to safety protocols and legal procedures in the vaccine's deployment. They discussed the need for comprehensive training and support for healthcare workers at all levels, from central to local health facilities, to ensure the effective implementation of the vaccination program.

The Ministry has outlined plans for monitoring and supervising the vaccination process, which is set to commence in the third quarter of 2026. This includes preparing detailed guidelines for the use of the Prevenar 13 vaccine, which has already received approval from the Drug Administration.

As antibiotic-resistant strains of pneumococcus pose increasing threats, the introduction of this vaccine is seen as a proactive measure to enhance child health and prevent serious illnesses. The Ministry is committed to expediting the necessary legal and procedural steps to ensure the timely availability of the vaccine for young children.