A toolkit to aid in the education and training of supply chain members for the efficient distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine: A South African case

Abstract

Background: Since the roll-out of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines worldwide, South Africa has had to adjust and overcome challenges associated with the safe and effective distribution of COVID-19 vaccines to its citizens. Vaccines are biological products, and many supply chain factors could influence product integrity and efficacy. This study focuses on aiding the logistics industry in understanding the COVID-19 vaccine supply chain around its handling, storage, and transportation requirements.

Objectives: The study had five objectives. Firstly, to understand the functionality and components of a vaccine supply chain and, secondly to identify the stakeholders involved and their roles. Thirdly, the researchers wanted to comprehend and clarify the cold chain protocols for each category of the COVID-19 vaccines procured and the appropriate international best practices. The last two objectives were to identify the skill and training requirements of stakeholders on all levels, and using these inputs in creating an educational toolkit, aimed at operationally involved supply chain stakeholders.

Method: The researchers made use of both primary and secondary data, focusing mostly on collecting data through a literature review, stakeholder analysis, and interview process.

Results: The study outcome was a COVID-19 vaccine educational toolkit with four tools addressing the research objectives: (1) An identification of all vaccine supply chain stakeholders, (2) vaccine categorisation according to type and equipment required, (3) handling, storage, and delivery protocols, and (4) vaccine supply chain skill and training requirements.

Conclusion: These tools can be used as a basis when educating and/or training COVID-19 vaccine supply chain employees on different levels and stages.