U.S. Helps Vietnam Combat Infectious Diseases via EPT-2 Program

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has recently launched the emerging pandemic threats 2 (EPT-2) program to support efforts in Vietnam to better prevent, detect, and respond to infectious disease threats. The program is closely aligned with the key objectives of the governments’ partnership on the Global Health Security Agenda and Vietnam’s adoption of the International Health Regulations. “Infectious diseases are still among the foremost dangers to human health and the global economy. The program supports Vietnam’s efforts to protect us all against infectious disease threats and contribute to global health security,” said USAID Vietnam Mission Director Joakim Parker. Vietnam is located in a relatively high-risk region for emerging infectious diseases. The new influenza A/H7N9 virus recently detected in humans and animals in neighboring China is an example of potentially serious regional threats to public health and economic development. Over the past 10 years, USAID has provided more than $60 million to support Vietnam’s programs to combat avian influenza and other pandemic threats. (Vietnam.usembassy.gov Mar 10)