WHO supports rapid delivery of critical botulism antitoxin to Da Nang

The World Health Organization (WHO) has delivered five vials of urgently needed botulism antitoxin to Da Nang to support three critically ill patients affected by suspected botulism. Botulism antitoxin is a rare, critical medicine that can prevent the toxin from causing further harm and significantly improve the chances of recovery when administered promptly. 

Ms Hajnalka Horvath from WHO’s Health Emergency, Preparedness and Response Division In Geneva, arrived at Noi Bai International Airport this afternoon, carrying the critical botulism antitoxin from WHO Headquarters in Switzerland.

Upon receiving the alert from national health authorities, WHO mobilized rapidly across all three levels of the Organization — country office, regional office, and headquarters — to identify available supplies from the global stockpile in Geneva and arrange immediate transport to Viet Nam. WHO worked closely with the Ministry of Health, local health authorities, and airport and logistics partners to ensure the vials reached Da Nang as quickly and as safely as possible. 

The botulism antitoxin was immediately transferred to a representative of the Da Nang Department of Health, Dr Pham Hong Ha, Deputy Head of Pharmaceutical Management Department, who had been awaiting their arrival at Noi Bai airport with WHO Viet Nam Team. The antitoxins were then transported as quickly as possible to the hospital in Da Nang.

“We extend our deepest concern to the affected patients and their families, and our appreciation to the dedicated medical teams providing round-the-clock intensive care. They are all in our thoughts as we hope for the patients’ swift and full recovery,” said Dr Angela Pratt, WHO Representative in Viet Nam. 

Dr Võ Hữu Hội (second from left), Deputy Director of Da Nang Obstetrics and Pediatrics Hospital, receives the antitoxins at Da Nang airport. 

“This rapid deployment shows the importance of strong partnerships and preparedness. WHO will continue to stand with Viet Nam to strengthen rapid response capacity for future health emergencies, while working with the Ministry of Health and partners to further reinforce preparedness, readiness, and overall health security.” 

The doctor from Da Nang Obstetrics and Pediatrics Hospital is preparing the vials to give to the patients.

WHO also expressed gratitude to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) for its continued partnership and support to health emergency operations in the Western Pacific.