Role of Electronic Vaccine Intelligence Network (eVIN) in Improving Routine Immunization Services: A Cross-Sectional Assessment in Unnao District, Uttar Pradesh, India
Abstract:
Vaccination remains one of the most cost-effective public health interventions for reducing childhood morbidity and mortality globally. The Universal Immunization Programme (UIP) in India, initiated in 1985, has expanded significantly with technological innovations like the Electronic Vaccine Intelligence Network (eVIN) implemented since 2014 to strengthen vaccine logistics and supply chain management. This cross-sectional study assessed the effectiveness of eVIN implementation in Unnao District from November 2024 to October 2025, evaluating 21 Cold Chain Points (CCPs) across the district. The study examined cold chain infrastructure, vaccine storage practices, logistics management, health worker knowledge, and system performance. Results revealed 100% functional large ice-lined refrigerators and cold boxes, universal compliance with temperature monitoring protocols, and perfect adherence to vaccine storage standards. All healthcare personnel (n = 21) demonstrated competency in freeze-sensitive vaccine enumeration and shake test procedures. However, supervisory oversight gaps emerged with only 33.3% of sites receiving District Immunization Officer reviews in the preceding three months. Critical infrastructure deficits included complete absence of functional vaccine transport vans and dedicated drivers at 95.2% of facilities. eVIN integration demonstrated 95.2% operational efficiency with minimal system issues. The study demonstrates that while technological interventions like eVIN significantly improve vaccine logistics, supply chain transparency, and health worker competencies, sustained performance requires complementary investments in supervision infrastructure, transport logistics, and periodic competency-based training. Digital health solutions integrated with existing immunization approaches present promising opportunities for achieving universal immunization coverage goals and improving service delivery quality at the district level.References:
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