15 September 2023
On 15th September 2023, the GenRe-Mekong team received an invitation to participate in a meeting hosted by the National Malaria Control Programme and scientific partners in Vietnam. The meeting took place in Quy Nhon, Vietnam, bringing together control programme officers with the primary goal of addressing the current situation of antimalarial drug-resistance and advancing elimination efforts in the Middle-Central Highlands region of Vietnam.
Following opening remarks by Dr. Hồ Văn Hoàng Viện, IMPEQN and Dr. Huỳnh Hồng Quang, Researcher Institute Coordinator, Institute of Malariology Parasitology and Entomology Quy Nhon or IMPEQN, followed by a preliminary report given by Dr. Nguyễn Thanh Thùy Nhiên (OUCRU) on the genetic of malaria and associated antimalarial drug resistance during the period 2017-2022. The session aimed to assess past performances, positive outcomes, and the impact on individuals. The next session was given by Prof. Olivo Miotto of the GenRe-Mekong project highlighting use cases to support malaria control and elimination, followed by a discussion led by Dr. Huỳnh Hồng Quang. Consequently, participants shared their experiences and challenges on collecting the dry blood spots in their different conditions which brought a further discussion to the afternoon session.
Afternoon session was a summary of key points in the procedure of “Genetic epidemiology of malaria and associated antimalarial drug resistance (GenRe-Mekong project)” study by Dr. Nguyễn Thanh Thùy Nhiên (OUCRU) and a discussion on difficulties and challenges in conducting research and experience sharing from collaborators from different regions in Vietnam. The meeting ended with an orientation of planned malaria research activities 2023-2025 by Dr. Huỳnh Hồng Quang, and the closing remarks by the organization team.
On reflection from the meeting, the GenRe-Mekong project envisions future expansion into additional provinces in the north, such as in Gia Lai province, where a surge in Plasmodium vivax cases has been identified. The project also anticipates increasing efforts to establish clear ownership of the project’s implementation processes by dedicating a workshop aimed at reflecting on the valuable lessons learnt throughout the duration of the project. This compilation of insights will be shared with relevant stakeholders, ensuring that the project’s acquired experience and knowledge will not be lost once the funding runs out. This proactive approach will not only enable effective replication but also the scaling up of the project for broader impact.
Finally, as the evening unfolds at the dinner party, the atmosphere was filled with smashing joy and stronger relationship, forming meaningful networking connection. Everyone felt a stronger bond of collaboration and looked forward to the opportunity to reunite again.
Article and photos by: Supaporn Mahaphontrakoon (Pop), GMS Coordinator