SCDI presents to readers the comprehensive of outstanding activities in November 2023 

An honoring ceremony: Communities Lead 

In the afternoon of 17/11, in Hai Phong, a ceremony was held to honor the Communities Lead, recognizing the contributions and persistent efforts of community groups implementing the DRIVE project (the project to end the HIV epidemic among people who inject drugs in Hai Phong) and other organizations in the same field. 

The program featured the participation of Prof. Françoise Barré-Sinoussi (a French scientist who discovered HIV as the cause of AIDS and was awarded the Nobel Prize in Biomedicine in 2008), Prof. Yazdan Yazdanpanah - ANRS Director, Dr. Didier Laureillard, experts from ANRS, among other delegates. 

Each participant wore a red ribbon - a symbol of the fight against HIV/AIDS. The ceremony began with a candlelight vigil to commemorate those who have been lost to HIV, followed by unique and vibrant music and thoughtful sharing from community members. 

Photo: Communities take commemorative photograph

ANRS-MIE scientific conference in Hai Phong - Towards Ending HIV/AIDS   

On November 15-16, SCDI participated in the scientific conference titled 'Towards Ending the Epidemic in Vietnam,' held in Hai Phong. The event was organized by the Vietnam Administration for HIV/AIDS Control, the National Agency for Research on Emerging Infectious Diseases (ANRS-MIE), and Hai Phong University of Medicine and Pharmacy. 

The conference aimed to share research results on HIV/AIDS and emerging infectious diseases funded by ANRS during the period of 2019-2023. Additionally, the goal was to exchange experiences in applying research findings on HIV/AIDS and emerging infectious diseases in Vietnam, and to provide direction for future research in this field. 

Dr. Khuat Thi Hai Oanh, the Executive Director of SCDI, moderated the session titled 'CHEER model: from research to implementation' during the conference. 

Photo: Dr. Khuat Thi Hai Oanh moderating the session "The CHEER model: from research to implementation"

Training session about One Health 

CBOs recently learned about One Health, an effective strategy for preventing zoonotic diseases, curbing drug resistance, and enhancing human health. Dr. Khuat Thi Hai Oanh led the session, raising awareness about the crucial connection between human and animal and environment. Climate change was also addressed due to its adverse impact on human health. In response, Dr. Khuat Thi Hai Oanh shared practical daily practices to minimize greenhouse gas emissions. To further encourage community engagement, each attendee received a personalized water pitcher from SCDI. This gesture aims to inspire small, daily changes aligning with the principles of "One Health – One Earth". The session was a comprehensive exploration of interlinked health factors and a call to action for sustainable practices in the face of environmental challenges. 

Photo: Dr. Khuat Thi Hai Oanh mderated training session on One Health.

Dengue prevention training for Community-based Organizations

SCDI and CBOs had the opportunity to enhance their knowledge of Dengue through a lecture by PhD. Nguyen Duc Khoa, Former Deputy Head of the Infectious Diseases Department at the Department of Preventive Medicine, Ministry of Health. The training session covered diverse aspects of dengue, such as symptoms, treatment, and preventive measures. Participants learned strategies to shield themselves from mosquitoes, becoming vigilant against being the next 'prey,' and safeguarding those around them. Beyond theoretical knowledge, the community actively immersed themselves in hands-on learning about mosquitoes' daily habitats and breeding habits. This comprehensive session facilitated a more informed and empowered community in the fight against Dengue. 

Photo: PhD. Nguyen Duc Khoa - Former Deputy Head of Infectious Diseases Department, Department of Preventive Medicine, Ministry of Health.