EVALUATION OF COLD CHAIN PRACTICES IN A RURAL DISTRICT OF MADHYA PRADESH

vaccine is an immune-biological substance designed to produce specific protection against a given disease. It stimulates production of specific antibodies and other immune mechanisms. (1) Vaccination is one of the most effective disease prevention strategies when implemented properly across all sections of the at risk population. Immunization against a disease is achieved only if a potent vaccine is administered. The system of transporting, storing and distributing vaccines in a potent state at the recommended temperature from the point of manufacture to the point of use is the cold chain. Vaccine potency once lost cannot be restored . The cold chain remains a highly vulnerable point for national immunization program. (2) In order to realize the full benefits of immunization, coverage of vaccination has to be increased and more importantly potent vaccines should reach the beneficiaries for which cold chain maintenance is crucial. (3) Concurrent efforts made to strengthen cold chain system at government level by providing right cold chain equipments.