From November 14–17, 2023, the delegation from Phan Chau Trinh University (PCTU), including Dr. Nguyen Xuan Huong, Director of the Center for Scientific Research and International Cooperation, and Dr. Hoang Nguyen Thanh Thuy, Head of the Pediatrics Department at PCTU and Head of Pediatrics at Tam Tri Da Nang General Hospital, participated in the 13th World Congress of the World Society for Pediatric Infectious Diseases (WSPID 2023) held in South Africa.
This is one of the most prestigious global scientific forums in the field of pediatric infectious diseases.

A Global Scientific Event with Over 600 Experts from 80 Countries

This year’s congress covered more than 60 thematic sessions, spanning infectious disease prevention, clinical management, public health policy, the use of big data in epidemiology, and emerging applications of information technology and artificial intelligence— including tools such as ChatGPT — in modern healthcare.

The selection of PCTU’s studies for presentation at this global stage reflects the university’s growing scientific impact and recognition within the international research community.

PCTU Presents Two Scientific Studies at WSPID 2023

During the congress, PCTU researchers presented findings from two significant studies:

1. Multi-center study on antibiotic resistance in neonatal sepsis – a collaboration between PCTU and the University of Sydney (Australia)

Presented by Dr. Nguyen Xuan Huong:

Antibiotic Prescribing Practices, Infection Prevention and Control Strategies, and Antibiotic Resistance among Neonatal Sepsis in Vietnam: A Multi-Centre Study

This collaborative project evaluates antibiotic prescribing patterns, infection prevention strategies, and antimicrobial resistance among neonatal sepsis cases in Vietnam. The study represents a major step toward PCTU’s strategic focus on applied epidemiology and clinical research.

2. Study on post-influenza pneumonia in children in Da Nang

Presented by Dr. Hoang Nguyen Thanh Thuy:
“Pneumonia in Children with Influenza A in Da Nang City, Vietnam.”

This research provides essential local evidence regarding pneumonia following influenza A infection in children, contributing to improved clinical decision-making and preventive strategies.

Strengthening PCTU’s Role in Global Research and Collaboration

Participation in this congress allowed PCTU to:

• Connect with leading global experts in pediatric infectious diseases
• Expand research collaboration with international institutions
• Enhance PCTU’s visibility and reputation as an emerging center of excellence in medical education and research
• Integrate global trends in technology, AI, and modern epidemiology into training and clinical practice

The event strongly supports PCTU’s long-term vision of becoming a regional leader in applied biomedical research and public health innovation.

Reflections from the PCTU Delegation

Attending such a high-level international congress was an honor. I had the opportunity to share our clinical experience with childhood pneumonia in Vietnam and learn from leading experts worldwide. I hope more PCTU pediatric clinicians will join future congresses, including the upcoming 2025 meeting.

— PhD.Dr. Hoang Nguyen Thanh Thuy