(Illustrative photo)

Doctor Nguyen Huy Du of the UNICEF said that over the last 2 years, the health sector has worked tirelessly to raise vaccination rates nationwide.

The COVID-19 vaccination drive should be maintaining that momentum, said Mr. Du. “It’s necessary to review vaccination groups at all levels and administer vaccination at clinics and mobile vaccination units at schools, hamlets, and work places. Medical staff should work harder. They need more help to fulfill their work.”

Besides limited resources for epidemic prevention and control, the health sector is facing other difficulties including shortage of drugs and medical supplies. In order to achieve the goal of providing booster shots for people above 18 years old, and 2 basic injections for children from 5 to 12 years old, Acting Minister of Health Dao Hong Lan recommended: "In August we have to focus on vaccination for children from 5 to 12 years old. We have to work with the Ministry of Education and localities to administer COVID-19 vaccines for children because the WHO says that Vietnam’s vaccination coverage for children is still low. Localities should have specific plans to ensure that when the new academic year begins in September, children go to schools in a safe environment."

In order reach the goal of 80% of adults receiving a first and second booster, the Health Ministry asked localities to enhance communication about the benefits and safety of the COVID-19 vaccine, which helps reduce the risk of serious illness, mortality, and reduces the burden on the health sector. The health sector need to further collaborate with relevant agencies to ensure sufficient drugs, equipment, and human resources for pandemic prevention and control, while implementing incentives for doctors and medical staff.