As one of 42 countries that is capable of producing vaccines, the nation is speeding up its research process in a bid to develop a COVID-19 vaccine, with the Ministry of Health directing manufacturers to step up research activities in order to eventually lead to mass production of a vaccine. The four local manufacturers of a COVID-19 vaccine include the Institute of Vaccines and Medical Biologicals (IVAC), the Company for Vaccine and Biological Production No.1 (VABIOTECH), the Research Center for Vaccine Production and Medical Biologicals (POLYVAC), and Nanogen Pharmaceutical Biotechnology Co. Ltd. At present, the country’s potential COVID-19 vaccines are being trialed in an experimental capacity on mice. Minister Long added that the nation has not recorded any COVID-19 community infection cases since September 3, while the country has stepped up research activities in an effort to develop a suitable COVID-19 vaccine and increase access to vaccines being produced worldwide. Furthermore, Vietnam is also one of 92 countries participating in the "COVID-19 Vaccine Global Access Facility” (COVAX Facility) scheme and it is expected to get early access to vaccines from Gavi, the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), and the World Health Organization (WHO). Moreover, the nation has recently ordered vaccines from three countries, including Russia, the United States, and the UK, while actively seeking other sources through direct discussions with foreign manufacturers. …
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