Australia delivers 3.6 million Pfizer vaccine doses to Vietnam with UNICEF support

The final 2.2 million dose batch arrived at Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City on February 19.

The delivery completes Australia’s commitment to share 7.8 million COVID-19 vaccine doses with Vietnam. In addition to the Pfizer doses procured through UNICEF, Australia shared 4.2 million AstraZeneca doses from its own supply since August last year.

Australia's Ambassador to Vietnam Robyn Mudie and UNICEF representative Rana Flowers

“Australia is a close friend and partner of Vietnam and we continue to unite in our shared fight against COVID-19,” said Australia’s Ambassador to Vietnam Robyn Mudie. “Vietnam has made tremendous progress with its vaccine rollout and I am proud that Australia could contribute towards this important work. It is critical to saving lives and boosting economic recovery.”

UNICEF representative Rana Flowers said: “We are grateful to the government of Australia for sharing these life-saving vaccine doses with the Vietnamese people. Vietnam has proven itself highly efficient in the safe delivery of vaccines, ensuring that these are utilised effectively.

“These vaccines will help the country in its effort to reach all, extending over time to children, and ensuring the rollout of booster doses. All of which contributes to a reduction in the severity of disease experienced, and importantly protects hospitals and health workers from being overwhelmed.”

The Pfizer doses were purchased with UNICEF’s support through Australia’s AUD60 million ($43.26 million) package for Vietnam’s COVID-19 vaccine rollout.

Along with purchasing doses, Australia is partnering with UNICEF to ensure vaccine distribution is safe, effective, and equitable.

The Australia-UNICEF partnership has bolstered the national vaccination campaign, supporting the delivery of 1,910 refrigerators to hard-to-reach communes, healthcare worker training, and communications campaigns.

Australia’s vaccine dose deliveries and comprehensive package of support make Australia one of Vietnam’s top partners supporting the national vaccination campaign.