Government Vaccines Expire Due to Ineffective Management, Causing Financial Loss
Summary
The Nepalese National Immunization Program has wasted government vaccines worth over Rs 41 crore due to ineffective management and storage, as reported by the Auditor General. Vaccine wastage is linked to multi-dose vials and systemic challenges in rural immunization sessions.
Key Points
- Government vaccines worth Rs 41.48 crore were wasted due to poor management and non-compliance with storage standards.
- BCG vaccine wastage rate is 82%, with an average of 36% wastage for other vaccines.
- Auditor General reports highlight negligence in vaccine management and call for a separate vaccine fund.
- Department of Health Services is implementing micro-planning and vial size reduction to reduce vaccine wastage.
