Bhubaneswar, 25 February (H.S.): Odisha's State Vaccine Store has made history by becoming the first in India to receive the ISO 9001:2015 certification for quality management under the Universal Immunization Programme (UIP). This prestigious certification reflects the state's commitment to maintaining the highest standards in vaccine storage, cold chain management, and supply chain operations.
The certification recognizes the vaccine store’s adherence to stringent quality standards, including a well-organized storage system, efficient cold chain management, seamless supply chain operations, and digital record-keeping through online software. The store ensures quality maintenance through regular temperature checks twice a day, achieving zero wastage. This achievement is the result of the hard work and dedication of the health department staff and frontline health workers.
Cold chain management and vaccine transportation are vital components of the immunization programme. Odisha operates 1,263 cold chain centers, which include one state vaccine store, nine regional vaccine stores, and 32 district vaccine stores. These centers ensure vaccines are stored at the required temperature until they are delivered to beneficiaries. A dedicated workforce manages the daily supply chain, ensuring safe and timely vaccine distribution.
To meet the state's annual immunization targets, which include 9.4 lakh pregnant women, 7.9 lakh infants, and 28 lakh adolescents, the State Vaccine Store handles approximately 2.36 crore doses of vaccines every year, prioritizing their safe storage and last-mile delivery.
In addition to the State Vaccine Store, seven regional and 22 district vaccine stores in Odisha have also earned the ISO 9001:2015 certification, further solidifying Odisha’s leadership in immunization quality management.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda
