On December 19, 2024, the international scientific community recognized a significant advancement in the prevention of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) with the publication of the VQUIN research in two articles in the world's leading medical journal - The New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM). This is the result of collaboration between scientists from the University of Sydney and Vietnamese TB specialists, within the framework of a research program that was previously honored with the Ho Chi Minh Prize for Science and Technology, with funding from the Australian National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC).

For the first time globally, the VQUIN research has developed a 6-month preventive treatment regimen using Levofloxacin for people in direct contact with MDR-TB patients. This treatment method is not only simple, safe, and accessible, but also represents a breakthrough in the prevention of MDR-TB, one of the world's greatest health challenges. This regimen can be applied in countries with high rates of drug-resistant TB, contributing to the global goal of ending TB by 2030.

“This discovery marks a turning point in the global fight against MDR-TB. The new treatment method will help countries with high rates of multidrug-resistant TB implement more effective prevention measures,” shared Professor Greg Fox, International Principal Investigator of the VQUIN Research.

Each year, approximately 400,000 people worldwide contract MDR-TB, putting millions of household contacts at risk of infection. The treatment process for MDR-TB is burdensome for patients and their families due to the complex treatment regimen, the combination of multiple drugs, the long duration, and the serious side effects caused by the use of combined antibiotics.

The VQUIN research, conducted in Vietnam by the University of Sydney Vietnam Institute, the Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, and the Vietnam National Tuberculosis Program in 10 provinces from North to South, has provided important information about the effectiveness of the preventive treatment strategy.

The results from the VQUIN research have brought hope to millions of people at risk of MDR-TB. “This research is clear evidence of the importance of international cooperation in addressing global health issues. This treatment method will not only bring hope to the people of Vietnam, but also create a positive impact for the whole world,” said Associate Professor Nguyen Viet Nhung, Principal Investigator of the VQUIN Research in Vietnam.

“The results of the VQUIN research are a testament to the close collaboration between scientists, medical experts, and government agencies in Vietnam and Australia. Thanks to joint efforts, we can achieve significant progress in the fight against tuberculosis and save millions of lives around the world,” shared Professor Nguyen Thu Anh, Deputy General Director of the University of Sydney Vietnam Institute.

The treatment regimen discovered by the VQUIN research was included in the WHO's global MDR-TB prevention guidelines in September 2024, opening up opportunities for countries to apply this method to reduce the incidence and mortality of MDR-TB.