A series of scientific seminars on influenza prevention

Key activities included: An event to meet and listen to insights from GII experts (Global Influenza Initiative); The Sanofi Webcast of Immunization Training for Champions “Regional expert forum on Improving Health Outcomes of Adult Population through Influenza Vaccination” featuring contributions from experts in Vietnam, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, as well as global experts from professional influenza networks such as MENA-ISN (Middle East, Eurasia and Africa influenza stakeholders network), RAISE (Raise awareness of Influenza strategies in Europe) and GII (Global Influenza Initiative); Dedicated Influenza expert meeting in collaboration with the Vietnam Geriatrics Association, providing an opportunity for local medical experts to exchange insights on impact of influenza in the elderly (including in Vietnam) and the unmet needs for a higher standard of influenza vaccination for elderly cohort.

A series of seminars with the participation of healthcare experts

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there are approximately 3-5 million severe cases of influenza globally each year, with around 290,000 - 650,000 deaths due to serious complications from influenza. According to current data and statistical methods developed to estimates of LRTI morbidity and mortality that was directly caused by influenza, among the elderly population in Vietnam, there are approximately 4,000 hospitalizations due to seasonal flu each year, with about 1,400 deaths caused by the disease (Reference: Lancet Respir Med 2019; 7: 69–89).

Influenza is not just a common cold, it can lead to serious complications, particularly for the elderly and individuals with chronic underlying conditions. Therefore, proactively preventing influenza with vaccination is essential to protect against the infection and its complications, representing a crucial effort in safeguarding public health.

This scientific seminar series reflects Sanofi's commitment to continuously providing the medical community with the latest scientific knowledge. Doctor Kuharaj Mahenthiran, Vietnam Medical Head emphasized that “This effort aims to protect the community from the burden of influenza caused by various influenza virus strains and reduce the risk of severe complications resulting from influenza infections such as pneumonia, heart attack, and stroke.”

Sanofi is a global pioneer and leader in providing vaccines to protect against influenza and its complications. This leadership stems from a commitment to improving the quality of clinical trial design and setting higher standards for medical evidence.

Mr. Burak Pekmezci, Head of Vaccines and Country Lead, Vietnam, emphasized: “Society’s efforts to prevent influenza must be built on the continually updated knowledge base of healthcare professionals. This series of activities demonstrates our journey towards setting a new standard in influenza prevention in the future, offering advanced and tailored solutions for optimal protection against influenza and its complications for different groups, starting with the elderly cohort. Sanofi, as an industry leader, remains committed to this common goal.”