Amidst the increasing warnings about a potential flu pandemic that could erupt next winter and spring, many agencies in Hanoi are seeking to purchase Tamiflu for stockpiling. However, according to Deputy Minister of Health Trinh Quan Huan, this medication should only be stockpiled in hospitals.
In recent days, not only the Ministry of Health, but also the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Food and Agriculture Organization, along with many countries, have raised alarms about the risk of a flu pandemic that could potentially kill up to 150 million people.
Last weekend, the Center for Non-Governmental Organizations in Hanoi announced on their website www.ngocentre.org.vn: “Through discussions with member organizations and updating information, the center believes there are 7 issues that non-governmental organizations need to pay attention to in preparation for a possible flu pandemic: stockpiling Tamiflu, preparing contingency plans, protective clothing, alerting staff, and establishing response policies.”
Several embassies in Vietnam and the region, including those of France, the Netherlands, the UK, and the US, have reported that they are stockpiling Tamiflu for use by their staff in the event of an outbreak among humans.
Dithelm, a company that sells Tamiflu, has stated that if organizations wish to purchase the medication, they can send a formal request specifying the quantity and purpose of the purchase. The price of the medication is 430,000 VND per box; however, it is currently out of stock.
According to the Treatment Department of the Ministry of Health, Tamiflu remains the most effective treatment for H5N1 influenza, as recommended by the WHO. Vietnam is currently stockpiling approximately 600,000 tablets. The Ministry of Health has advised the Drug Administration and pharmaceutical companies to import more. The global stockpile of this medication is also around 3 million tablets.
However, Deputy Minister Trinh Quan Huan believes that Tamiflu should not be widely sold on the market, as it is a prescription medication. Furthermore, localized stockpiling could lead to artificial shortages and surpluses. The Ministry’s policy is to concentrate supplies and medications at health departments and hospitals to ensure timely and appropriate mobilization and usage.