Vietnam confirmed no new coronavirus infections on March 1, keeping the total caseload at 2,448, including 572 active cases.

COVIVAC Covid-19 vaccine developed by Institute of Vaccines and Medical Biologicals (IVAC) of Vietnam. Photo: IVAC

Meanwhile, the number of death remains unchanged at 35.

More than 60,600 people including those returning from the pandemic-hit areas and those in close contact with Covid-19 patients have been under quarantine, including at hospitals, at quarantine sites, and at home.

Ten affected cities and provinces including Hoa Binh, Dien Bien, Ha Giang, Binh Duong, Hung Yen, Bac Giang, Gia Lai, Bac Ninh, Quang Ninh, and Ho Chi Minh City have undergone 16 consecutive days without any locally-transmitted infections, while Hanoi has recorded 14 straight days of no new cases.

As planned, Vietnam will conduct from March the second human trial for COVIVAC Covid-19 vaccine developed by Institute of Vaccines and Medical Biologicals (IVAC) of Vietnam.

Vingroup, the leading private conglomerate in Vietnam, has financed VND20 billion (US$869,000) for the development of COVIVAC vaccine.

Preclinical studies conducted in India, the US, and Vietnam has shown good results, according to Dr. Duong Huu Thai, head of IVAC, the developer of the vaccine.

Once offered for vaccination, domestic vaccines will be priced at around VND60,000 (US$2.6) per dose.