Assessment of Childhood Vaccination Cold Chain Management at Primary Healthcare Centres in Gombe State

Cold chain integrity is fundamental to vaccine potency and immunisation programme effectiveness, and its management at the last mile of the immunisation system, the primary healthcare centre, is often the weakest link in northern Nigerian health systems. This study assessed cold chain management practices and equipment functionality at primary healthcare centres in Gombe State, North East Nigeria. A cross-sectional facility assessment was conducted in 20 PHCs across Gombe, Balanga, and Shongom LGAs. Data were collected through direct observation using a structured facility assessment checklist aligned with NPHCDA cold chain standards, interviews with immunisation focal persons, and temperature log review where available. Equipment functionality, temperature monitoring practices, vaccine stock management, and provider training status were assessed. Results showed that functional refrigeration equipment was present in only 65 percent of assessed PHCs. Daily temperature monitoring was consistently practised in 40 percent of facilities. Temperature excursions (temperatures outside the required 2 to 8 degrees Celsius range) were documented in 35 percent of sites. Vaccine vial monitors were correctly interpreted by only 55 percent of immunisation workers. Cold chain equipment maintenance services had occurred within the preceding 12 months in only 45 percent of PHCs. The study concludes that cold chain management is significantly deficient in Gombe State PHCs and recommends immediate equipment audit and repair, intensified cold chain monitoring training, and supervisory support visits as priority national immunisation programme interventions.

Keywords: cold chain management, childhood vaccination, primary healthcare centre, Gombe State, immunisation programme