In a significant move to bolster regional health security, China, Laos, and Vietnam have intensified their collaboration to combat cross-border infectious diseases. This initiative was highlighted during a joint emergency drill held on October 15-16 in Jiangcheng county, Yunnan province, China. The drill simulated an outbreak of a newly emerging acute infectious disease in the border regions of the three nations, encompassing practical exercises, static displays, and strategic discussions. Sun Yang, deputy director of the National Disease Control and Prevention Administration, emphasized the drill’s meticulous planning, which showcased professionalism and a scientific approach. Shi Guoqing, director of the Health Emergency Center of the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, noted that the drill effectively tested capabilities in early detection, rapid response, and international collaboration. This marked the first comprehensive, end-to-end emergency drill of its kind among the three countries. Nguyen Thi My Ha from the Vietnam Administration of Disease Prevention underscored the drill’s importance in enhancing information sharing and coordination mechanisms. Over recent years, the neighboring nations have coordinated through various meetings, seminars, and training sessions, focusing on epidemic monitoring and border health quarantine. Viengsavanh Kittiphong, deputy director of Laos’ Department of Communicable Disease Control, highlighted the improved efficiency and timeliness of data sharing between China and Laos, which has led to faster responses to outbreaks, including COVID-19, malaria, dengue fever, measles, and rubella. Moving forward, Yunnan province and its neighboring regions in Laos and Vietnam will prioritize the prevention and control of diseases such as chikungunya, dengue fever, and plague, while deepening joint mechanisms for major infectious disease outbreaks and enhancing measures like regular consultations and information sharing.
China, Laos, and Vietnam ramp up collaboration regarding cross-border infectious diseases
