The first batch arrived at Tan San Nhat International airport on May 20

Australia has now shared more than 22.2 million COVID-19 vaccine doses with Vietnam, including 7.8 million doses for Vietnam’s adult vaccination programme and 7.2 million Moderna doses for paediatric use to launch Vietnam’s COVID-19 vaccine rollout for children.

Australia’s Ambassador to Vietnam, Robyn Mudie said, “Australia has been proud to work in partnership with Vietnam since 2021 on the national vaccination campaign, sharing adult vaccine doses and supporting the rollout across the country. I am delighted that we could share 14.4 million doses to support Vietnam’s paediatric vaccine campaign and pleased that we have been able to share more than 22 million doses in total with our close friend, Vietnam”.

Along with these doses, Australia is providing around $43 million of support for Vietnam’s vaccine rollout. As part of this package, Australia is working with UNICEF and the Ministry of Health to strengthen vaccine delivery systems – including cold chain upgrades, training for healthcare workers, and planning and implementation of the rollout in remote provinces. The package also includes mobile vaccination sessions in remote areas.

Rana Flowers, UNICEF representative said, “As COVID-19 remains with us, vaccines are still our best bet to reduce the mortality and impact of the disease. Vaccines help to reduce the probability that children will get long-COVID or suffer major side effects. UNICEF is delighted to join hands with Australia to provide COVID-19 vaccines for children in Vietnam as well as to support our partners to enhance the capacity of the health and immunisation systems to efficiently and equitably distribute vaccines."