Operational Assessment of Cold Chain Management for Vaccines and Thermolabile Drugs in Zamfara State, North West Nigeria

Background: Cold chain integrity is essential for maintaining the potency and safety of vaccines and thermolabile pharmaceutical products. Failures in cold chain management lead to vaccine wastage, treatment failures, and patient harm. In resource-constrained settings such as Zamfara State, maintaining cold chain infrastructure presents formidable challenges. This study assessed cold chain management practices for vaccines and thermolabile drugs across health facilities in Zamfara State. Methods: A cross-sectional facility assessment was conducted in 25 health facilities of varied tiers in three local government areas of Zamfara State. Observation checklists, temperature monitoring logs, and interviews with cold chain handlers were used to assess cold chain equipment functionality, temperature recording practices, and staff training adequacy. Results: Functional refrigeration was available in 72 percent of facilities, but only 44 percent had backup power for electricity outages. Temperature monitoring logs were consistently maintained in 38 percent of facilities. Cold chain training had been received by 41 percent of relevant staff. Vaccine wastage attributed to cold chain failure was documented in 29 percent of facilities in the preceding six months. Conclusion: Cold chain management in Zamfara State health facilities is compromised by power instability and training deficits. Investment in solar-powered refrigeration, standardised monitoring protocols, and regular staff training is essential. Keywords: cold chain, vaccines, thermolabile drugs, Zamfara, supply chain management