The Smithsonian Institution’s “Outbreak: Epidemics in a Connected World” Exhibition was opened on Monday at the Hanoi Medical University.
US Ambassador to Vietnam, Daniel Kritenbrink at the exhibition. Photo by the US Embassy.
The opening ceremony was attended by US Ambassador to Vietnam, Daniel Kritenbrink, Deputy Minister of Health Tran Van Thuan, and President of Hanoi Medical University Ta Thanh Van.
The exhibition is a customizable “Do-It-Yourself” (DIY) version of a larger display at the US National Museum of Natural History in Washington, DC.
The exhibition highlights how pathogens can spread to people from wildlife and livestock, why some outbreaks become epidemics and how human, animal and environmental health are connected as “One Health.”
“Outbreak DIY” includes pre-designed and template panels. The exhibition which will last until December 14, covers topics such as Tuberculosis and Covid-19.
Speaking at the event, US Ambassador Kritenbrink said, “This outbreak exhibit marks the 25th anniversary of collaboration between our countries, and reminds us how the United States, Vietnam, and all countries of the world must work together to meet the continuing challenge of infectious diseases. Vietnam has risen to this challenge in stopping the spread of COVID-19, but we will certainly face new outbreak threats in the future. The United States will continue to stand together with Vietnam in meeting the challenge.”
More than 100 venues in over 30 countries have displayed “Outbreak DIY,” including universities, libraries, hospitals, airports, embassies, community centers and museums. It is available in multiple languages, including Vietnamese, French, Spanish, Arabic, and Chinese.
