Vietnam Expands Vaccine Mandates Ahead of 2026 Rollout

The Ministry of Health in Vietnam has published Circular 13/2026/TT-BYT to enhance vaccination initiatives nationwide. This regulation broadens the scope of diseases included in the compulsory national immunization program, aiming to boost public health through increased vaccine distribution and improved management systems.

As part of the circular, a total of 14 diseases will now necessitate mandatory vaccination under Vietnam’s Expanded Immunization Program. The diseases listed are Hepatitis B, Tuberculosis, Diphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus, Polio, Haemophilus influenzae type b, Measles, Rubella, Japanese encephalitis, Rotavirus diarrhea, Pneumococcal disease, and Human papillomavirus infection. The Ministry retains the discretion to add more diseases as deemed necessary.

Additionally, the Ministry has indicated that 11 infectious diseases will necessitate mandatory vaccination during epidemic prevention efforts. This list includes Diphtheria, Polio, Pertussis, Rubella, Measles, Cholera, Japanese encephalitis, Rabies, Influenza, and COVID-19. Authorities noted other infectious diseases may be included based on World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations and future decisions by the government.

The new circular outlines enhanced vaccination management protocols designed to foster accuracy and transparency within the healthcare system. A new vaccination management database will compile personal details of the vaccinated individuals, along with information of parents or guardians for minors and essential medical data for disease prevention.

Commune-level health stations will collaborate with local organizations to compile and update the lists of individuals eligible for the mandatory vaccination programs. Facilities across the country will be responsible for generating individual vaccination tracking numbers and ensuring records are updated within the National Vaccination Information Management System, which aims to prevent duplicates and enhance monitoring.

Individuals opting for voluntary vaccinations will also be recorded in the digital vaccination management system. Facilities offering voluntary immunization services must keep precise records and ensure that all data is accurately uploaded into the national database. Distinct vaccination management protocols will be in place for personnel within the Ministry of Public Security and the Ministry of National Defense.

Vietnamese health officials believe the enhanced vaccination regulations will fortify disease prevention, streamline healthcare efforts, and advance long-term public health objectives. Expanding the vaccine coverage is crucial for safeguarding communities against infectious diseases and securing national health in the future.

This new circular is set to take effect on July 1, 2026, and healthcare agencies throughout the country are gearing up for the implementation of the revised immunization procedures and management infrastructures prior to the deadline.