A memorandum signed between VNVC and Substipharm Biologics plans to introduce HFMD vaccines to Vietnam. The vaccines aim to protect children and reduce the disease’s impact. Research shows high safety and efficacy of the vaccine against EV71. Improved public awareness and medical expertise are also objectives of this collaboration.
On February 25, 2025, a significant memorandum of cooperation was established between Việt Nam Vaccine Joint Stock Company (VNVC) and Swiss pharmaceutical firm Substipharm Biologics, aiming to introduce new vaccines to Vietnam. Among these vaccines is one for hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) caused by Enterovirus 71 (EV71). This partnership intends to enhance scientific research interactions, improve medical staff expertise, and increase public awareness of disease prevention, particularly for young children.
The HFMD vaccine is designed for administration to children aged two months to six years. Research published in the esteemed medical journal The Lancet confirms the vaccine’s safety, highlighting a protective efficacy of 96.8%. Furthermore, it fosters long-term immunity against the prevalent EV71 strain, effectively mitigating the severity of the disease.
During the signing event, Hervé Profit, Senior Director at Substipharm Biologics, announced plans to quickly introduce the HFMD vaccine to Vietnam. This initiative is expected to safeguard children’s health, reduce severe complications, and improve efforts to combat HFMD, which significantly impacts pediatric health each year.
VNVC’s General Director Ngô Chí Dũng expressed gratitude towards Substipharm Biologics, noting the absence of specific treatments for HFMD, which places immense strain on the healthcare system. Both organizations aim to ensure sufficient vaccine availability for a widespread vaccination campaign, prompt in preventing infections among the youth.
HFMD arises primarily from Coxsackie virus A16 and EV71 infections. Symptoms from CA16 are usually mild, manageable at home, while EV71 leads to severe complications, including encephalitis and pneumonia. The risk of serious illness from EV71 is notably 16 times higher than from other HFMD strains.
HFMD is highly contagious, transmitted through nasal secretions, saliva, and contact with contaminated surfaces. Early symptoms typically manifest as fever, irritability, and a sore throat, followed by painful mouth ulcers and rashes with blisters on the hands and feet. Children under five remain particularly vulnerable due to their developing immune systems; this highlights the risk in daycare and preschool environments where outbreaks frequently occur.
The introduction of the HFMD vaccine in Vietnam is a crucial development for public health, particularly for children. This partnership between VNVC and Substipharm Biologics aims to reduce the burden of the disease through vaccination. Given the severe implications associated with EV71 infections, the vaccine is expected to play a significant role in protecting vulnerable populations and enhancing overall health outcomes.
Original Source: asianews.network
