Vaccination effectiveness within the Lao National Expanded Program of Immunisation in provinces of Bolikhamxay, Vientiane and Khammouan

Project leader: Antony Black, Claude Muller
Member of staff: Phonethipsavanh Nouanthong, Keooudomphone Vilivong, Did Panyathong, Siriphone Virachith

Activities and prospective
In order to analyse the effectiveness of the routine childhood vaccines we have initiated a study in collaboration with Lux Development to determine the antibody level among vaccinated Lao infants. In total, approximately 1000 child-mother pairs have been recruited from the provinces of Boulhikhamxay, Khammouan and Vientiane. Levels of antibodies specific for several vaccine-preventable diseases will be assessed including hepatitis B, diphtheria, tetanus, measles and rubella. Serological data from the children will be analysed in relation to vaccination status, maternal immune status, nutritional status and parasite load.

From the left, 1^st row: H.E. Mrs SivLeng Chhuor (Ambassador of France, Observer), H.E. Dr Bounkong Syhavong (Board Member), H.E. Dr Bounfeng Phoummalaysith (Minister of Health, Chairman), Dr Darouny Phonekeo (IPL’s Deputy Director). From the left, 2^nd row: Dr Manivanh Souphanthong (Board Member), Prof. Yves Buisson (Board Member), Mr Thomas Lammar (Chargé d’Affaires a.i., Embassy of Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, Observer), Mr Bob Paquin (Chargé d’Affaires, Embassy of Canada, Observer), Dr Philippe Buchy (IPL’s General Director).

Vaccination effectiveness within the Lao National Expanded Program of Immunisation in provinces of Bolikhamxay, Vientiane and Khammouan

Project carried on in the lab: