Vietnam introduces dual model of mandatory, voluntary vaccination

Mandatory vaccination requires individuals to receive vaccines and biologicals listed under the compulsory immunization schedule and those needed for outbreak control.

Meanwhile, voluntary vaccination allows each resident to decide whether to receive vaccines not included in the compulsory list.

Over the years, Vietnam’s vaccination efforts have significantly reduced the incidence and mortality of many infectious diseases, contributing to major milestones such as the eradication of polio, the elimination of neonatal tetanus, and broader community health protection.

The Vietnam Administration of Disease Prevention under the Ministry of Health on Thursday launched the 2025-27 communication and health education program on disease prevention through vaccines and Biologicals, themed 'Vaccination for Everyone.'

The initiative also celebrated the new law approved by the National Assembly.

Duong Chi Nam, deputy head of the administration, said that the 2025 law introduces several important updates related to vaccination.

These include the supplementation of a disease-prevention information system that incorporates immunization data, and regulations requiring vaccination-history reviews during annual school health checks.

The law affirms citizens’ right to equitable access to vaccines and biological products across all age groups throughout their lives, ensuring protections for both individuals and the community.

A key element of the law is its clear distinction between mandatory and voluntary vaccination.

“This legal framework enables agencies and localities to more effectively conduct immunization campaigns, ensuring timely and efficient disease prevention,” Nam said.

He also said that vaccination facilities are now required to comply with reporting and information-sharing regulations set by the Ministry of Health.

In addition, Nam detailed plans to introduce additional vaccines into the national expanded program on immunization.

Some vaccines, such as pneumococcal and HPV vaccines, will be piloted on a smaller scale before a nationwide roll-out, with HPV expected to enter the program in 2026.

These pilot phases will help localities adjust to budget constraints and assess readiness before full implementation.

The administration said the 2025-27 communication and health education program will focus on producing educational materials and expanding outreach to raise public awareness about expanded, voluntary, and lifelong immunization.

The goal is to spread the message of ‘vaccinating correctly, sufficiently, and on time,’ reinforcing past public health achievements and strengthening early-prevention habits among the population.