Vietnam has produced two vaccines against seasonal and A/H5N1 flu. The vaccines are expected to be licensed by 2019. This makes Vietnam among several countries that have successfully produced A/H5N1 avian influenza vaccines for humans.

The production of influenza vaccines was implemented by the Nha Trang Institute of Vaccines and Medical Biologicals using the egg-based manufacturing process.

Influenza is a leading cause of mortality worldwide. Seasonal influenza causes some 250,000-500,000 fatalities and up to five million cases of severe illness across the globe every year.

Vietnam’s efforts to produce influenza vaccines not only benefit local people but also provide preventive treatment for the region and the world at large.-VNA