Assessment of Cold Chain Management for Veterinary Biologics in Gombe State, North East Nigeria

This study assesses the integrity of cold chain management systems for veterinary vaccines and biologics in Gombe State, located in Nigeria's North East geopolitical zone. The therapeutic and preventive efficacy of veterinary vaccines depends critically on unbroken cold chain maintenance from manufacturer to point of administration, and failures at any stage can render vaccination campaigns ineffective while creating false impressions of protection. Using a cross-sectional assessment design, 25 veterinary clinics, field vaccine stores, and mobile vaccination units in Gombe State were evaluated for cold chain compliance. Data were collected through direct inspection of refrigeration equipment, temperature log review, cold box and ice pack availability, vaccine handler training records, and power supply reliability. Structured interviews with 40 veterinary officers and vaccine store managers were conducted. Findings revealed that functioning refrigeration equipment was present in only 60 percent of assessed facilities, and continuous temperature monitoring logs were maintained in fewer than 30 percent of sites. Power supply disruptions affected vaccine storage in 72 percent of facilities, with backup generator or solar coverage available in only 35 percent of sites. Vaccine handlers in 58 percent of assessed units had received no formal cold chain training in the preceding two years. The study recommends investment in solar-powered vaccine refrigeration, establishment of cold chain monitoring protocols, and mandatory cold chain management training for all veterinary vaccine handlers in Gombe State. Keywords: cold chain, veterinary vaccines, Gombe State, biologics, vaccine management.