Surveillance of cold chain system during intensified pulse polio programme--2006 in Chandigarh

To evaluate the maintenance of cold chain system in the Intensive Pulse Polio Immunization (IPPI) campaign in the Union Territory, Chandigarh.

A cross sectional study was conducted in 18 designated vaccine sub-depots, where OPV vials were stored prior to IPPI and 25 IPPI booths out of the designated 406 IPPI booths in U.T, Chandigarh. The booths were selected by stratified random sampling technique. 25 Vaccine vials, one from each booth were selected and sent for potency testing at Central Research Institute (CRI)-Kasauli.

All the randomly selected vaccine samples were reported portent, as per the reports provided by CRI-Kasauli. Cold chain maintenance and temperature charting was found satisfactory.

There are some avoidable errors which leaves room for improvement, which can be in the form of provision of adequate number of exhaust fan, voltage stabilizers, etc. Uninterrupted power supply should be ensured. Lastly, more emphasis is to be given on maintenance of cold chain system in reorientation training program of all health functionaries.