Knowledge and practices of cold chain handler (CCH) regarding cold chain equipment and vaccines storage in Chirang district, Assam

Background: Vaccination is one of the most effective disease prevention strategies and potency of vaccine is dependent on effective management of cold chain at all levels of vaccine handling by cold chain handler. An effective cold chain maintenance system is the backbone of success of any immunization program. This study was done with objectives to assess the knowledge and practices of Cold chain handler regarding cold chain equipments and vaccines storage. Methods: Study design: Cross-sectional study was conducted during 1st Jan.2015 to 30thJune 2015 in Chirang district of Assam using a pre-structured questionnaire among the cold chain handler. Sampling methods: Chirang district has total of 2 BPHC and total of 12 cold chain point under this 2 BPHC (Block PHC) were selected purposively,6 cold chain point from each block. Study population and Sample size: Cold chain handler of the facilities of Chirang District with cold chain point and thus sample size was 12. Results: Out of total 12 cold chain handler 7(58.33%) were female, 5(41.67%) were male, only 7(58.33%) of cold chain handlers knew properly about cold chain. All 12 (100%) of the cold chain points ILR were functioning and only 5(41.67%) of the respondents practiced of record keeping for power failure and defrosting of ILRs and DFs. Conclusion: There is a need to improve methods of ILR and DF maintenance of temperature and regular defrosting with record keeping.