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« Back to NewsInternational collaboration launches largest-ever therapeutics trial for patients hospitalised with dengue
16 December 2025
A landmark international research collaboration has launched the largest clinical trial ever conducted to test therapeutics for moderate-severe dengue, a mosquito-borne viral disease that continues to spread rapidly driven by climate change and globalisation.
OUCRU trials AI-powered wearables for early warning of severe dengue
9 December 2025
AI applications in dengue monitoring and prediction are showing encouraging early signals, with new models achieving around 80% accuracy in forecasting severe progression up to two hours in advance. The Oxford University Clinical Research Unit (OUCRU) presented these findings at the Dengue Summit 2025, organised by Ho Chi Minh City Pasteur Institute.
Community Engagement in Antimicrobial Stewardship Programmes Implementation – 60HN ASPARNet
5 December 2025
The study titled “Evaluating Antimicrobial Stewardship strategies and capacity building through Participatory Action Research and a Network approach in Vietnam” (60HN – ASPARNet) continues to implement activities to promote Antimicrobial Stewardship (AMS) programmes across hospitals participating in the network.
Youth Peer Educator Combat AMR: Indonesian Youth Action in Antimicrobial Resistance’s Stewardship
28 November 2025
Knowledge and beliefs about antibiotics continue to shape emerging health behaviours in Indonesia. With support from OUCRU, PAPRA empowered young people to create learning resources to promote responsible antibiotic use among their peers.
Communicate Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) using community-based, co-created media
20 November 2025
World AMR Awareness Week (18–24 November) promotes global action against antimicrobial resistance (AMR) under the theme “Act Now: Protect Our Present, Secure Our Future.” Vietnam, among the countries with the highest antibiotic resistance rates, faces widespread antibiotic misuse. OUCRU and partners have launched innovative, youth-focused engagement initiatives—including animated videos, theatre performances, and peer-led projects in Vietnam, Indonesia, and Nepal—to raise awareness, correct misconceptions, and connect science with everyday experiences.
Study Finds COVID-19 Vaccine Boosters Still Protect Vulnerable Indonesians Well Into the Post-Pandemic Period
9 November 2025
COVID-19 vaccine booster shots made from the original strain of the virus still save lives among vulnerable Indonesians, but provide limited protection for the wider public, according to a new study by OUCRU Indonesia, Universitas Gadjah Mada, and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Bridging the community voices: OUCRU Indonesia held the Kick-Off Meeting Community Forum for Health Research (ForuM)
4 November 2025
In September, OUCRU Indonesia held the kick-off meeting of the Community Forum for Health Research (ForuM) — an initiative that connect OUCRU Indonesia researchers with lay public to strengthen OUCRU research and community engagement. The ForuM serves as OUCRU Indonesia’s Community Advisory Group (CAG) — a mechanism for two-way communication between researchers and the public. Members shared advice, guidance and feedback on study design, recruitment strategies, informed consent materials, cultural appropriateness, ethical considerations, and the communication of research findings.
MODRA Cohort 2: From ideas to action
4 November 2025
Following the success of the first MODRA workshop in September, where participants developed strong research grant proposals, the MODRA Cohort 2 researchers reconvened at OUCRU Ho Chi Minh City for Workshop 2, focused on taking their projects from paper to practice.
OUCRU supports new WHO report tracking global antimicrobial resistance
28 October 2025
The World Health Organization (WHO) has released its 2025 Global Antimicrobial Resistance and Use Surveillance (GLASS) Report, offering the most comprehensive global data on antimicrobial resistance (AMR) to date. Among the contributors were OUCRU Indonesia’s Professor Raph Hamers and Dr Gilbert Lazarus, whose systematic reviews provided critical insights into resistance trends. Their findings highlight rising resistance, especially in low-resource settings, and underscore the need for stronger surveillance and evidence-informed policy to address this growing health threat.
At the Frontline of Infectious Diseases: My Experience as a Clinical Intern from Germany at OUCRU
21 October 2025
German medical student Du Hanh spent a month at the Oxford University Clinical Research Unit (OUCRU) in Ho Chi Minh City, gaining firsthand experience in tropical and infectious diseases. From ICU rounds to research discussions, he discovered how OUCRU connects clinical care, research, and public health to make a real-world impact.
OUCRU Nepal and A*STAR IDL Sign MoU
16 October 2025
OUCRU Nepal has officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the A*STAR Infectious Diseases Labs (A*STAR IDL), Singapore, to establish a collaborative partnership aimed at advancing research in infectious diseases. This strategic collaboration focuses on mutual interest with a shared focus on antimicrobial resistance, respiratory diseases, and vector-borne diseases, including associated neuroviral outcomes.
Sabina Dongol Selected for ISARIC Leadership Programme for Scientists
16 October 2025
OUCRU-Nepal is proud to announce that Dr Sabina Dongol has been selected to join the first cohort of the ISARIC Leadership Programme for Scientists a global initiative aimed at empowering mid-career female researchers from Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs) to become independent research leaders.
OUCRU contributes to defining the first core outcome measurement set for Dengue
10 October 2025
A major international collaboration between ISARIC researchers at King’s College London and the Oxford University Clinical Research Trials Unit (OUCRU) has created the first global Core Outcome Measurement Set (COMS) for dengue clinical trials.
OUCRU workshop drives dialogue on early warning systems for climate-sensitive infectious diseases
6 October 2025
Researchers, policymakers, and health professionals gathered at the Oxford University Clinical Research Unit (OUCRU) for a workshop on “Enablers and Barriers to Development and Implementation of Early Warning and Response Systems for Climate-Sensitive Infectious Diseases in Viet Nam.”
Building Vietnam’s Clinical Trial Future: OUCRU and Partners at the Forefront
29 September 2025
On 26 September 2025, leading researchers, policymakers, and international partners gathered in Hanoi for the Workshop on Clinical Trial Opportunities in Viet Nam, co-organised by the World Health Organization, Hanoi Medical University, and the Oxford University Clinical Research Unit (OUCRU). The event marked an important step in strengthening Vietnam’s clinical trial ecosystem, aligning national ambitions with global health innovation.
MODRA Cohort 2 begins: Empowering the next generation of leaders in global health
23 September 2025
Fifteen emerging scientists from South and Southeast Asia begin an 18-month journey with MODRA. Together, they are gaining the skills to lead research that makes a difference in global health.
Bridging science and practice to improve the outcome of patients with dengue
25 August 2025
Dengue cases in Ho Chi Minh City surged by 170% in 2025, straining hospitals and affecting both children and adults. In response, OUCRU and partners held a workshop with over 200 health professionals to share research, identify clinical gaps, and advance collaborative efforts for improved dengue diagnosis and treatment.
OUCRU researchers have a leading role in developing first International Clinical Practice Guideline for Tuberculous Meningitis
22 August 2025
OUCRU researchers have played a leading role in developing the world’s first international clinical practice guideline for tuberculous meningitis (TBM), now published in The Lancet Infectious Diseases.
New study maps immune cells fuelling harmful inflammation in tuberculous meningitis
21 August 2025
Tuberculous meningitis (TMB) harms not only through infection, but also through the body’s own overactive immune response. Using single-cell RNA sequencing, OUCRU scientists have identified specific immune cells in the brain that may be driving this harmful inflammation. Their study established a cutting-edge cellular method to identify new therapeutic targets for host-directed therapy, aimed at improving survival and reducing immune-mediated brain injury in TBM patients.
OUCRU release report on intensive care training programme in Vietnam
21 August 2025
After more than three years of collaboration, OUCRU and Dragon Capital are pleased to announce the release of the final report of the Intensive Care Training Programme for Life-Threatening Infectious Diseases in Vietnam.
OUCRU and partners launch Kleb-CASAVA project
18 August 2025
OUCRU and partners have officially launched the Klebsiella pneumoniae Community Acquired Infections Surveillance And Vaccine Development (Kleb-CASAVA) project. This collaborative initiative will strengthen surveillance of community-acquired Klebsiella pneumoniae infections and advance vaccine development to address the growing global threat of antimicrobial resistance
Indonesia to host first dual-species malaria vaccination trial
11 August 2025
OUCRU Indonesia is preparing a Phase 2 clinical trial of a malaria vaccination designed to protect against the two most widespread malaria parasites, Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax. The trial, to be conducted in Keerom, Papua, will be the first to test a dual-species malaria vaccination in humans.
What I learned as a UK clinical intern at OUCRU Vietnam: infectious diseases and the realities of vaccine inequality
4 August 2025
Nandita Shenolikar, a final-year UK medical student, completed a clinical internship in infectious diseases at OUCRU in Ho Chi Minh City. She tells us how her placement offered unique exposure to severe infections, highlighting global vaccine disparities and deepening her medical knowledge. Nandita's experience also fostered friendships, cultural exploration and a lasting connection to Vietnam.
Policy in action: A Princeton student’s internship at OUCRU Vietnam
30 July 2025
Alayshja Bable, a Princeton University student, interned with OUCRU Vietnam’s Policy Engagement team, conducting interviews to evaluate how research informs health policy. Her work strengthened OUCRU’s strategy while deepening her understanding of Vietnam’s policy landscape. The experience also enriched her personal growth and affirmed her commitment to human rights work.
OUCRU and HSPI sign MoU to advance health research collaboration
29 July 2025
OUCRU and the Health Strategy and Policy Institute have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to promote joint research and evidence-based health policy. The agreement marks a significant step toward a long-term interdisciplinary collaboration.
Community discussion: What do underserved populations at risk of Hepatitis C Virus need the most?
21 July 2025
As part of efforts to improve Hepatitis C care for underserved groups, OUCRU hosted a dialogue bringing together community members, social scientists and insurance representatives. Participants, including people who inject drugs, LGBT+ individuals and low-income groups, discussed barriers to accessing health insurance despite policy improvements. Challenges include complex hospital systems, documentation issues, limited awareness, financial constraints and privacy concerns. The session highlighted the importance of continued community-based participatory research to address health inequities and strengthen support networks.
15 emerging Asian global health researchers selected to join MODRA
11 July 2025
The MORU – OUCRU Discovery Research Academy (MODRA) announces its 2025 cohort of emerging researchers in global health and infectious diseases.
Enhancing research through effective science communication and strengthening community bonds
4 July 2025
At the Public and Communication Science Technology Conference (PCST) 2025, OUCRU showcased four projects highlighting the value of culturally sensitive public and community engagement in science. Presenters stressed the importance of tailoring communication to local contexts and promoting open science. The conference underscored the need for better recognition of engagement roles within academic research in the Global South.
Using photos to express community perspectives: how photovoice reflects the daily health risk of climate change
3 July 2025
Climate change is the greatest health threat facing humanity today. Its impact on livelihoods, equity, healthcare access, and community resilience falls hardest on vulnerable groups—women, children, ethnic minorities, older adults, and those with pre-existing conditions. How can a creative engagement method, photovoice explore the perception and communicate climate and health risks in Indonesia, Vietnam and Nepal?
Using effective media strategies to bridge gaps to hard-to-reach populations: case studies in Vietnam and Indonesia
25 June 2025
OUCRU has developed culturally tailored strategies to improve vaccine communication and uptake in diverse communities across Vietnam and Indonesia. From training village health collaborators and co-creating storytelling films in Dak Lak to animated videos for malaria trial recruitment among Indonesian soldiers, these efforts highlight the power of locally relevant, creative engagement. By addressing structural barriers, cultural sensitivities and trust, OUCRU’s initiatives demonstrate how community-informed approaches can enhance public health research and support better health outcomes.
Real-time genetic surveillance can support timely, evidence-based responses to shifting malaria threats
25 June 2025
A sharp decline in piperaquine-resistant strains of P. Falciparum malaria following drug policy revisions across the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) highlights how real-time genetic data can support timely, evidence-based responses to shifting malaria threats, say researchers in a study published in Nature Communications.
Bring time back to care with AI-assisted applications for dengue in Vietnam
16 June 2025
OUCRU has developed D‑SCAPE, a wearable device, and D‑CAT, an AI-led clinical decision tool, to enhance dengue management in Vietnam. These innovations automate vital monitoring and analyse patient data to predict deterioration, allowing timely action. They alleviate frontline workloads and improve proactive care in resource-constrained hospitals.
Research finds new metabolic clues to survival in tuberculous meningitis
12 June 2025
In a collaborative new study led by OUCRU, researchers have found that tryptophan in cerebrospinal fluid is a determinant of lower survival in people with tuberculous meningitis. These findings suggest the possibility that other metabolites could also predict patient outcomes.
WHO delegation visits OUCRU to strengthen collaboration on infectious disease research and surveillance
12 June 2025
A WHO delegation visited OUCRU and the Hospital for Tropical Diseases (HTD) to explore collaborative efforts in infectious disease research, diagnostics, and surveillance. The institutions showcased achievements in outbreak response and genomic sequencing. The visit strengthened ties with WHO, highlighting OUCRU and HTD’s regional leadership and commitment to advancing health security and training opportunities.
AI and big data in clinical care for infectious diseases in Vietnam
3 June 2025
Oxford University Clinical Research Unit (OUCRU) and the Hospital for Tropical Diseases in Ho Chi Minh City recently hosted a scientific conference titled “Applying Artificial Intelligence and Big Data in Clinical Practice for Infectious Diseases.”
OUCRU and partners chart a “Roadmap to the Future of Clinical Trials in Vietnam”
2 June 2025
A new report charts a roadmap to make Vietnam a top-three ASEAN destination for clinical trials by 2030. It outlines challenges and solutions to unlock economic and health benefits. Aligning with global best practice can position Vietnam as a hub for life-saving research and innovation.
The power to take care of your mental health is within the community
20 May 2025
This May, countries worldwide mark Mental Health Awareness Week under the theme community. OUCRU highlights research from Vietnam showing how social connections support mental wellbeing. With localised resources and expert guidance, we aim to reduce stigma, encourage open conversations, and empower individuals and communities to care for mental health—together.
More effective and affordable treatment strategies for Hepatitis C
12 May 2025
Oxford University Clinical Research Unit (OUCRU) announced promising results from the VIETNARMS trial, a years-long multi-arm clinical trial conducted in Vietnam. The trial found that the readily available and affordable Hepatitis C treatment sofosbuvir/daclatasvir had a >95% cure rate. The results offer important insights into new treatment regimens for Hepatitis C, potentially reducing treatment durations and halving treatment costs.
Building Better Vaccines: Dr Thitinan Kitisin Explores Tonsil Organoids Models in Thailand
23 April 2025
Years of groundwork have led Mahidol University Assistant Professor Dr Thitinan Kitisin to his first major step: leading an advanced vaccine research project in Thailand. With support from MODRA, he’s now developing one of the first tonsil organoid models in the country, a small but important step toward improving how vaccines are tested. Along the way, he’s also passing on practical research skills to the next generation of Thai scientists.
Professor Buddha Basnyat recognised by the Nepal Health Research Council
22 April 2025
Professor Buddha Basnyat has received the NHRC Lifetime Achievement Award for Health Research in Nepal. The Nepal Health Research Council (NHRC) recently conferred its prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award for Health Research upon Professor Basnyat at the 11th National Summit of Health and Population Scientists. This honour recognises his exceptional contributions to medical research and public health over a career spanning more than five decades.
Blog: Tackling newborn infection risks in Nepal
16 April 2025
At OUCRU Nepal, microbiologist Sulochana Manandhar spent much of her early career at the lab bench, examining bacteria, fine-tuning methods, and chasing answers to scientific questions. Now, with support from the MODRA programme, she’s leading her first hospital-based study, bringing new attention to neonatal health risks in Nepal.
Celebrate World Health Worker Week
7 April 2025
The world is facing a shortage of 11 million health workers by 2030. World Health Worker Week calls for increased investment in all cadres of the health workforce - nurses, doctors, pharmacists, and others vital to resilient health systems. Health workers save lives, support economies, and advance development goals. Collaborative efforts, such as OUCRU’s training programme in Dak Lak, Vietnam, demonstrate the benefits of investment, with increased vaccine uptake. Protecting, valuing, and training health workers strengthens global health.
Blog: From post-PhD uncertainty to leading international research
4 April 2025
Dr Duong Thi Hue Kien, a Post-doc Scientist at OUCRU, has shared her experience of finishing her PhD and kickstarting her career in science. She documents the highs and the lows, as well as how she was able to move forward in her career with support from the MORU–OUCRU Discovery Research Academy.
One-third of antibiotics used in Vietnam are ‘inappropriate’
25 March 2025
Ranking 11th globally in antibiotic use, Vietnam faces a serious risk of drug resistance, ‘running out of treatment options due to antibiotic resistance’.
OUCRU Hosts Health Innovation and Entrepreneurship Training
24 March 2025
OUCRU Ho Chi Minh City recently hosted a three-day Health Innovation and Entrepreneurship Training course. The course, organised by OUCRU and the UK’s Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office, welcomed 25 participants selected for their potential to drive innovation across diverse organisations, including non-profit, for-profit, social profit, and governmental bodies.
Tuberculous meningitis survivor: “TBM can be completely cured.”
21 March 2025
Tuberculous meningitis (TBM) is a severe form of tuberculosis with high mortality and long-term disability risks, especially in children aged 1–5. It accounts for 1–5% of TB cases. WHO recommends a new 6-month treatment alternative to the traditional 12-month regimen. OUCRU is conducting a trial to assess its effectiveness. The project also addresses post-treatment support through a community advisory board and co-designed resources, aiming to improve care and outcomes for TBM-affected children and their families.
Recap: Southeast Asia Social, Ethical and Engagement Aspects of Pandemic Preparedness Workshop
14 March 2025
From 18-19 February 2025, a workshop focusing on the social, ethical, and engagement aspects of pandemic preparedness took place in Da Nang, Vietnam. Thirty-one participants from five Southeast Asian countries attended, representing health research, academia, policy, community engagement, and local community organisations.
OUCRU Hosts Intensive Care Training for Healthcare Workers
12 March 2025
OUCRU Ho Chi Minh recently concluded its annual three-day intensive care training program in Vietnam, made possible through the generous funding of Dragon Capital. Building upon the success of previous iterations, this year’s training aims to equip Vietnamese healthcare professionals with the latest advancements in intensive care management, particularly for life-threatening infectious diseases.
60% of hepatitis C patients do not know how they had the disease
5 March 2025
A survey at Vietnam's National Hospital for Tropical Diseases found 60% of hepatitis C patients unaware of how they contracted the disease, often diagnosed late. Globally, viral hepatitis causes 3,500 daily deaths, ranking second among infectious killers after tuberculosis. Advances in treatment affordability and public health policies aim to improve outcomes. OUCRU's research explores cultural and psychological factors impacting diagnosis and care, supporting WHO's goal to eliminate hepatitis by 2030.
Researchers develop AI-powered tools to improve pneumonia care
19 February 2025
A team of researchers at OUCRU was recently awarded a multi-million-dollar Discovery Award from the Wellcome Trust to develop AI tools to advance pneumonia research.