Assessment of vaccine storage and stock management practices in Vihiga County, Kenya

Abstract

Background: Immunization of children is crucial in reducing infant and child mortality. A number of elements need to be properly implemented for an effective vaccine management. This includes cold chain management, vaccine management, logistics and waste management. Failing to effectively implement these elements, can reduce the vaccines potency.

Objectives: This study was conducted to assess the vaccine storage and stock management practices in health facilities within Vihiga County. More specifically, it determined the status of the cold chain equipment; evaluated the stock management practices and assessed the knowledge level of the vaccine cold chain handlers involved in vaccines supply chain management in Vihiga County. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional research design was used. 103 public health facilities were selected and one staff involved in handling vaccines from each facility participated in the study. The study utilized survey questionnaires and observational checklist to collect quantitative data

Results: The findings indicated that 61 (70.9%) of the health facilities had functional refrigerators, the source of power being Electricity. 76(88.4%) had a vaccination micro plan, all facilities (100.0%) use standard vaccine requisition forms for ordering and receiving vaccine and physical stock counts are done in all facilities. Further, 49 (57.0%) had proper storage of vaccines in the refrigerator. The immunizing healthcare workers knew how to condition icepacks 76 (88.4%); prevent vaccine freezing during transport 76 (88.4%) and knew the antigens that were eligible for the four weeks’ open vial policy 66 (76.7%). However, many did not know all the heat, cold and light sensitive vaccines 49(57.0%). Conclusion: Majority of public health facilities storage conditions were in line with the WHO guidelines, some nevertheless fall short of the recommended storage conditions required due to sharing of refrigerators among the dispensaries. There is need for the County Government of Vihiga to invest more in purchasing of the WHO recommended refrigerators.