On the morning of May 21, 2025, Vietnam National Children’s Hospital was pleased to welcome a visiting expert from Cardiff Metropolitan University (UK) for a hospital tour and in-depth discussions on research and diagnostic capacities related to Mycoplasma pneumoniae-induced pneumonia in Vietnam.
During the meeting, Dr. Phan Huu Phuc, Vice Director of the Hospital, introduced Vietnam National Children’s Hospital as the nation’s leading pediatric institution. Each day, the hospital receives over 4,000 outpatient visits, including many severe and complex infectious and respiratory cases. Mycoplasma pneumoniae is a significant cause of pediatric pneumonia and can lead to complications involving the cardiovascular, digestive, and urinary systems. Therefore, the initiative to strengthen diagnostic capacities for Mycoplasma pneumoniae at Vietnam National Children’s Hospital – and throughout Vietnam – is of critical importance.
Dr. Phan Huu Phuc expressed his hope for fruitful collaboration between the two institutions, laying the groundwork for broader research initiatives beyond Mycoplasma-related projects. He also emphasized the potential to expand academic and medical cooperation with other universities in the UK, contributing to the ongoing development of the hospital’s medical expertise.
Dr. Phan Huu Phuc – Vice Director of Vietnam National Children’s Hospital speaking at the meeting
Delighted to visit and work with the hospital, Associate Professor Michael Leslie Beeton, a microbiology specialist and leader of the Mycoplasma and Ureaplasma Research Group at Cardiff Metropolitan University, discussed prospects for future collaboration. He expressed hopes that this initial meeting would lead to close and in-depth joint projects focusing on the research and diagnosis of Mycoplasma pneumoniae-related pneumonia in Vietnam. Furthermore, the partnership aims to enhance diagnostic capabilities and antimicrobial resistance profiling of Mycoplasma pneumoniae at Vietnam National Children’s Hospital.
Assoc. Prof. Michael Leslie Beeton – Microbiology specialist and leader of the Mycoplasma and Ureaplasma Research Group at Cardiff Metropolitan University, discussing collaborative opportunities with the hospital
The working session between the two sides was open and productive.
As part of the visit, the expert also conducted hands-on discussions at the hospital’s Microbiology Department, focusing on specific issues related to Mycoplasma pneumoniae.
Amid the resurgence and emergence of numerous infectious diseases, with many viruses and bacteria increasingly affecting children’s health, international collaboration like this offers promising pathways for advancing research, treatment, and pediatric care. It also contributes to the overall development of healthcare systems in the region.
