Observational study on vaccine availability in Parassala pharmacies.

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Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: A prospective observational study on availability and storage of vaccines in the community pharmacies at parassala
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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Original source:

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Author:

Simchu R. B., Shibina Najeem, Arsha Anand, Ancy A. B., E. Sam Jeeva Kumar and Dr. Prasobh G. R.


World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:

(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)

Full text available for: A prospective observational study on availability and storage of vaccines in the community pharmacies at parassala

Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research

Doi: 10.20959/wjpr202313-29020

Copyright (license): WJPR: All rights reserved


Download the PDF file of the original publication


Summary of article contents:

Introduction

The availability and storage of vaccines in community pharmacies play a critical role in public health, particularly in ensuring effective immunization against communicable diseases. A recent prospective observational study conducted in Parassala, Kerala, assessed the availability of vaccines and the facilities in place for their storage and handling within community pharmacies. The research focused on analyzing various elements such as the educational qualifications of pharmacists, the maintenance of cold chain logistics, and overall vaccine availability to ensure safe and effective immunization practices in the community.

Importance of Cold Chain Management

One of the key findings of the study is the significance of maintaining a cold chain for vaccine storage. Vaccines must be stored at controlled temperatures to retain their efficacy; the recommended temperature range is between 2°C to 8°C. The study revealed that 85% of the surveyed pharmacies maintained proper cold chain facilities. However, only 22% of them had air conditioning systems in place to help regulate these temperatures. Proper cold chain management is essential not only for maintaining vaccine potency but also in preventing contamination, which can lead to vaccine failure.

Availability of Vaccines in Community Pharmacies

The survey indicated a varied availability of vaccines across the 27 surveyed pharmacies. Vaccines for tetanus were the most commonly stocked, found in 15 pharmacies, followed by anti-rabies vaccines in 7 pharmacies and measles vaccines in 4 pharmacies, among others. Alarmingly, five pharmacies reported having no vaccines available at all. These discrepancies highlight a significant public health concern, as the effectiveness of immunization programs often relies on easy access to vaccines in community settings. Enhanced awareness and training about vaccine stocking and demand forecasting in pharmacies may help address these availability issues.

Qualifications of Pharmacists and Their Role

In terms of staffing, the study noted that pharmacists with appropriate qualifications are crucial for effective vaccine dispensing and patient counseling. The majority (77%) of the pharmacists held a Diploma in Pharmacy (D Pharm), whereas about 17% held both D Pharm and Bachelor of Pharmacy (B Pharm) qualifications. Having well-trained pharmacists on-site is essential not only for maintaining proper storage practices but also for educating the community about vaccination importance and addressing concerns about vaccine efficacy and safety.

Conclusion

The study underscores the critical role that community pharmacies play in the availability and proper storage of vaccines. Ensuring that all pharmacies are equipped with adequate cold chain facilities and staffed with qualified pharmacists is pivotal for effective immunization efforts. With the significant findings indicating challenges related to air conditioning and variability in vaccine availability, there is a clear need for improvements in resources and training in community pharmacies to enhance vaccine storage, thereby safeguarding public health. Ensuring adequate vaccine accessibility and maintaining their efficacy through proper storage practices can lead to a healthier community and contribute to the broader goals of disease prevention and control.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What was the main aim of the study conducted in Parassala?

The study aimed to evaluate the availability and storage of vaccines in community pharmacies within the Parassala region.

What percentage of pharmacies maintained proper cold chain for vaccines?

The study found that approximately 85% of the pharmacies maintained the cold chain necessary for the effective storage of vaccines.

How many pharmacies reported having air conditioning facilities for vaccine storage?

Out of the 27 pharmacies surveyed, only 22% had air conditioning facilities to aid in the proper storage of vaccines.

What qualifications did the pharmacists in the study possess?

Of the surveyed pharmacists, 77% were qualified as D Pharm, 17% as both D Pharm and B Pharm, and 8% as B Pharm and M Pharm.

What storage temperature must vaccines be kept at?

Vaccines should be stored at a temperature between 2°C and 8°C to maintain their potency and effectiveness.

Why is proper storage of vaccines crucial in pharmacies?

Proper storage is crucial because negligence can lead to contamination, affecting vaccine efficacy and safety.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Observational study on vaccine availability in Parassala pharmacies.”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Study (Studying):
'The study' emphasizes the specific research conducted to evaluate the storage and availability of vaccines in Parassala's community pharmacies. It seeks to identify strengths and weaknesses in current practices, ultimately providing recommendations for enhancing pharmacy operations and vaccine management.

2) Drug:
The term 'drugs' encompasses a broader category, including various pharmaceutical substances used for treatment, prevention, or diagnosis of health conditions. In the context of the study, it relates to the effective management and storage of vaccines, which are critical for immunization efforts against preventable diseases.

3) Medicine:
The medicine signifies the broader field of pharmacotherapy, highlighting the significance of proper vaccine administration and management. This applies to both individual treatment and public health efforts aimed at disease prevention through effective immunization.

4) India:
India, as the geographical focus of the study, highlights the unique healthcare challenges and cultural practices influencing vaccine storage and administration. The health systems in India, particularly in rural and community settings, play a vital role in determining the accessibility and effectiveness of vaccines.

5) Life:
Life pertains to the biological existence that vaccines aim to protect. By preventing diseases through immunization, vaccines contribute to healthier populations, enhancing life quality and longevity. The study underscores the importance of vaccines in safeguarding public health and combating infectious diseases.

6) Disease:
The term 'diseases' refers to a broader spectrum of health conditions that vaccines can prevent. Understanding the types of diseases targeted by vaccines is essential for establishing effective immunization strategies. The study aims to ensure community pharmacies are prepared to manage these vaccines effectively.

7) Quality:
The quality emphasizes the excellence of vaccine storage and management practices. High-quality standards, as set out in the study, are critical to ensuring vaccines retain their effectiveness, thereby safeguarding public health outcomes within the community.

8) Indian:
Indians denotes the cultural and demographic context within which the study is situated. Understanding Indian healthcare practices and perspectives aids in designing effective strategies for vaccine distribution and storage specific to the population's needs.

9) Knowledge:
Knowledge refers to the understanding possessed by pharmacists and healthcare workers regarding vaccine handling and storage practices. The study demonstrates that appropriate knowledge is crucial for ensuring effective vaccine management and adherence to cold chain protocols in community pharmacies.

10) Table:
The term 'table' frequently refers to data presentation formats used in the study to summarize findings related to vaccine availability and storage conditions in pharmacies. Tables help in systematic comparisons and enhance the clarity of information represented in research results.

11) Thiruvananthapuram (Thiruvanantha-puram, Tiru-anantapuram, Tiruvanantapuram, Tiruananta-puram):
Thiruvananthapuram is a significant urban center in Kerala, India, where the study is conducted. The city's healthcare systems play an essential role in vaccination efforts, thereby affecting overall public health initiatives and pharmacy practices throughout the region.

12) Arrangement:
Arrangements indicate organized plans for storing vaccines, ensuring compliance with cold chain requirements. The effectiveness of these arrangements directly impacts vaccine potency, thereby influencing community health strategies and access to essential vaccinations.

13) Puducherry:
Puducherry serves as a comparative reference point regarding pharmacy practices within the study. The findings and lessons learned from similar studies in Puducherry assist in understanding broader implications for vaccine storage and management in various Indian regions.

14) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
'Antibiotics' are drugs designed to treat bacterial infections and are essential in public health. While the focus is on vaccines, understanding antibiotics helps illustrate the broader context of drug management within healthcare, including the interactions between vaccines and antibiotic therapy.

15) Training:
Training refers to the educational processes aimed at equipping pharmacists and healthcare workers with the necessary skills and information to manage vaccines effectively. The study highlights the importance of ongoing training to improve performance in vaccine handling and storage.

16) Science (Scientific):
Scientific implies the application of systematic knowledge in health-related practices. In pharmacy, this emphasis on scientific methodology guides the effective management of vaccines and contributes to evolving healthcare standards.

17) Madhya:
Madhya refers to a region in India, particularly supported by studies that examine healthcare practices like vaccine management. Comparisons drawn from studies conducted in Madhya assist in identifying effective strategies and practices for overcoming common challenges in community health settings.

18) Kerala:
Kerala, where Parassala and Thiruvananthapuram are located, is crucial for understanding the public health delivery systems in the region. The study emphasizes the state's healthcare framework and its impact on vaccine storage and distribution practices.

19) Container:
A 'container' in this context refers to the physical packaging used for vaccines and medicines. Proper storage containers are critical for maintaining product stability and preventing contamination, as highlighted in the study's findings on storage practices in pharmacies.

20) Kumar:
Kumar is a common surname in India and could refer to an author's last name in the study’s context. This highlights the collaborative nature of research, demonstrating how multiple contributors advance public health understanding through various examinations of pharmacy practices.

21) Rules:
Rules refer to established guidelines and regulations governing pharmaceutical practices, particularly concerning storage and handling of vaccines. This underlines the significance of adhering to these rules to ensure safety and efficacy in community pharmacy operations.

22) Wall:
Walls symbolize the structural integrity and organization within pharmacy settings. The physical layout of pharmacies plays a role in ensuring a controlled environment for optimal vaccine storage and preventing contamination.

23) Observation:
Observations are critical in assessing the compliance of pharmacies to established protocols for vaccine storage. This evaluation helps identify areas needing improvement and reinforces adherence to best practices in healthcare.

24) Perception:
Perception relates to how pharmacists and healthcare workers understand and approach vaccine storage and management. This understanding is fundamental to ensuring effective practices are followed, particularly in addressing public health issues related to vaccination campaigns.

25) Developing:
Developing conveys the notion of growth and improvement in pharmaceutical practices, particularly in the context of vaccine storage and availability. The study's findings serve as a blueprint for enhancing vaccine management practices in developing regions of India.

26) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda represents a traditional medical system in India, emphasizing natural healing processes. In contrast to Western medicine, the principles of Ayurveda highlight the importance of holistic healthcare, which can complement modern practices in immunization and drug management.

27) Channel:
Channel often refers to pathways of communication and delivery within the healthcare system. Ensuring effective communication channels among pharmacists and healthcare providers is crucial for optimal vaccine storage and management, as highlighted in the study.

28) Gupta:
Gupta, like Kumar, is a common surname potentially associated with one of the authors or contributors in the study. This illustrates the collaborative effort of researchers working to advance knowledge in pharmaceutical practices and public health initiatives.

29) Anika:
Anika could pertain to a specific researcher or contributor to the study, reinforcing the idea that research is often a collective effort. Individual contributions enrich the understanding of vaccine storage and can influence practice improvements.

30) Birth:
The Birth can relate to the establishment of vaccination practices. This highlights the transition of health measures from traditional approaches to modern, evidence-based practices emphasizing the significance of effective vaccine administration.

31) Yoga:
Yoga represents a traditional practice aimed at fostering physical and mental well-being, similar to Ayurveda. Integrating holistic practices, like yoga, with modern vaccinations can enhance community health, showcasing comprehensive approaches to health management.

32) Food:
Food refers to the essential nutrition for humans. Preemptively, food can be linked to immune function and health, establishing a relationship between nutritional habits and the effectiveness of vaccination programs within communities.

33) Fire:
Fire signifies heat management in drug storage environments. Proper fire safety measures are essential in pharmacies to protect against potential hazards, which could compromise the integrity of vaccine storage and public health equipment.

34) Central India:
Central India reflects geographic regions available for comparative analysis within the study. By highlighting practices within Central India, the research analyzes vaccine management effectiveness and regional public health disparities.

35) Human body:
The human body represents the target of vaccine interventions aimed at promoting immunity and preventing diseases. Understanding body functions is essential for developing effective vaccines and ensuring proper storage, as this influences therapeutic outcomes.

36) Reason:
Reason pertains to the justification behind specific practices and protocols in healthcare. Recognizing the reasons for particular vaccine management strategies is crucial for enhancing compliance and ensuring effective vaccination efforts.

37) Desire:
Desire signifies a strong motivation to improve public health through effective vaccine management. This collective drive influences healthcare practices and informs the strategies developed to meet community health needs.

38) Nature:
Nature reflects the inherent characteristics of vaccine management and health practices. Understanding the nature of vaccines allows for the development of optimized storage and handling protocols essential for public health.

39) Field:
Field discusses the broader scope of pharmacy practice in healthcare. Understanding the field allows for the integration of different domains of knowledge, ultimately informing better practices in vaccine management.

40) Malnutrition:
Malnutrition indicates the deficiencies in nutritional status that can affect immune responses. Addressing malnutrition complements vaccination efforts, enhancing population health, and underscores the need for integrated public health strategies.

41) Surrounding:
Surrounding refers to the immediate environment framing pharmacy practices. An optimized surrounding contributes to successful vaccine handling while prioritizing public safety and compliance with health guidelines.

42) Performance:
Performance indicates the efficacy of pharmacy practices when managing vaccine storage and distribution. Assessing performance helps determine the success of implementation strategies and informs future operational enhancements.

43) Discussion:
Discussion pertains to the analysis and interpretation of findings from the study. It allows for an exchange of insights about the significance of proper vaccine management and informs future strategies to enhance public health.

44) Installing:
Installing refers to setting up necessary infrastructure for vaccine storage. Proper installation of refrigeration and monitoring equipment is essential to maintaining the integrity of vaccines in pharmacies, ensuring efficient cold chain management.

45) Bhatnagar:
Bhatnagar may refer to an author or contributor in the study, signifying the collaborative nature of research on vaccine practices. This involvement speaks to broader efforts to improve healthcare through shared findings and insights.

46) Sanghavi:
Sanghavi, like Bhatnagar, could denote a researcher contributing to the existing body of knowledge in the field. Such collaborations are essential in addressing contemporary health issues, notably in vaccine management practices.

47) Painting:
Painting refers to the aesthetic enhancement of pharmacy environments. A clean, well-maintained pharmacy is critical for instilling trust and ensuring safety in vaccine storage, thereby promoting professionalism in healthcare settings.

48) Relative:
Relative pertains to comparing different practices or conditions across regions. This comparative analysis helps identify gaps or strengths in vaccine storage strategies, contributing to the continuous improvement of public health programs.

49) Hygiene (Hygienic):
Hygienic indicates the importance of maintaining sanitation in vaccine storage areas. Ensuring hygienic practices is vital to prevent contamination and preserve the efficacy of vaccines, ultimately safeguarding community health.

50) Jayanti (Jayamti):
Jayanthi may refer to a specific researcher involved in the study, reinforcing the collaborative nature of academic research. Contributions from various individuals enrich the findings and promote better understanding of pharmaceutical practices.

51) Gujarat:
Gujarat serves as another regional reference for comparing healthcare practices related to vaccination. Insights from studies in Gujarat aid in formulating effective public health strategies tailored to local challenges.

52) Krishna (Krsna):
Krishna, similar to Jayanthi, refers to contributors in the pharmacy research context. Their roles foster advancement in pharmaceutical practices, enhancing overall understanding of effective vaccine management within healthcare settings.

53) Heating:
Heating refers to temperature management concerning medication storage. Maintaining precise temperatures, alongside other environmental controls, is essential for preserving vaccine potency and ensuring overall compliance with health standards.

54) Meeting:
Meeting implies collaborative gatherings where stakeholders discuss healthcare practices. Such meetings are crucial for exchanging insights and strategies on improving pharmacy operations and vaccine management within communities.

55) Kecavan:
Kesavan might refer to another author contributing to the study, which highlights the collaborative effort required in research on public health practices. Teamwork among professionals enhances the understanding and application of effective vaccine management.

56) Animal:
Animal refers to the broader context of zoonotic diseases prevented through vaccination. Addressing animal health through vaccination can mitigate disease transmission risks and relate to community health objectives.

57) Mandal:
Mandal could refer to another research contributor, highlighting the collaborative aspect of this study. Contributions from diverse researchers enable comprehensive assessments of pharmacy practices and aid in knowledge dissemination.

58) Family:
Family emphasizes the role of unit health in community health practices. Protecting families through vaccination is crucial for overall societal health, enhancing the effectiveness of public health campaigns and lowering disease burden.

59) Sharman (Sarma, Sarman, Sharma):
Sharma potentially points to another author involved in the research project. This signifies the multidisciplinary approach necessary for tackling health-related subjects and improving vaccine management practices within communities.

60) Dealer:
Dealer points to entities involved in the supply and distribution of pharmaceuticals, including vaccines. Effective partnerships with dealers are essential for ensuring the availability and integrity of vaccines in community pharmacies.

61) Simha:
Sinha could denote another author's contribution to the research, emphasizing the collaborative nature of academic initiatives. Each contributor aids in enriching the discourse and practical understanding of vaccine management.

62) Kheda:
Kheda represents a regional context relevant for comparative studies. Insights drawn from Kheda concerning healthcare practices help refine understanding of effective vaccine management strategies within local pharmacies.

63) Patel:
Patel may refer to a researcher involved in the study, showcasing the importance of collaborative efforts in understanding public health issues, particularly in the realm of effective vaccine practices in pharmacies.

64) Water:
Water signifies the importance of proper sanitation within pharmacy settings. Ensuring clean water access is vital for maintaining hygienic environments in drug and vaccine handling, thus preserving public health standards.

65) Arshas (Arsa, Arsas, Arsha):
Arsha may refer to a specific contributor to the study, reflecting the collaborative nature of research within the field of pharmacy. Each individual's contribution enhances the overall understanding of vaccine management.

66) Death:
Death relates to the severe consequences of preventable diseases. The study emphasizes the importance of effective vaccine storage and administration in mitigating the risk of mortality associated with vaccine-preventable diseases.

67) Cati:
Chadi could signify an author contributing to the research effort, emphasizing the importance of diverse perspectives and collaborative research in understanding vaccine practices and their impact on population health.

68) Anna:
Anna may represent a specific researcher involved in the study. Their contributions are vital for progressing knowledge in the context of vaccine practices and enhancing healthcare delivery systems.

69) Bell:
Bell could refer to a scholar or researcher who contributes to discussions on public health, particularly in vaccine-related research. Their insights enrich understanding and practices regarding vaccine management in pharmacy settings.

70) Line:
Line refers to the framework or guidelines that govern healthcare practices. Clear lines in terms of protocols and responsibilities are essential for effective vaccine management, ensuring adherence to health standards.

71) Pain:
Pain relates to the therapeutic areas targeted by vaccines, particularly in preventing diseases associated with severe health implications. The study emphasizes the need for effective vaccine storage to reduce the burden of preventable pain associated with diseases.

72) Shand (Sand):
Sand symbolizes the concept of stability within pharmacy environments. A stable, organized pharmacy environment is essential for effective vaccine handling and storage, ultimately supporting public health goals.

73) Pur:
Poor signifies the challenges faced by vulnerable populations in accessing health services, including vaccines. Addressing the needs of poor communities is crucial for equitable healthcare provision and improving overall public health outcomes.

74) Male:
Male may refer to demographic representation within the survey context in healthcare. Gender considerations can influence perceptions and access to vaccination services, critically affecting public health strategies and outreach efforts.

Other Science Concepts:

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Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Observational study on vaccine availability in Parassala pharmacies.’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:

Shelf life, Observational study, Temperature maintenance, Expiry date, Pharmacy practice, Community pharmacies, Clinical pharmacy, Temperature monitoring, Vaccine potency, Contamination risk, Pharmaceutical practice, Public health facilities, Healthcare service.

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