National Consultant On Vaccine Management And Cold Chain Emergency In Ukraine

Organizational Context

The WHO Country Office in Ukraine is addressing significant challenges to public health due to the ongoing emergency, with a particular focus on vaccine management and cold chain maintenance. High priority is placed on strengthening the cold chain system at national, regional, and healthcare facility levels to mitigate risks and ensure vaccine availability.

Job Purpose

This consultancy aims to provide critical technical support to the WHO Country Office in Ukraine, focusing on strengthening the immunization system. The role will involve developing and implementing contingency plans for vaccine cold chain emergencies, conducting simulation exercises (SimEx) to test response capabilities, and performing performance qualifications for remote temperature monitoring systems. Additionally, the consultant will contribute to training cold chain staff and potentially assist in legislative adjustments related to vaccine management. The ultimate goal is to enhance the reliability and resilience of Ukraine's vaccine cold chain infrastructure amidst the ongoing emergency, ensuring the safety and efficacy of vaccines and mitigating further health risks to the population.

Responsibilities

The consultant will provide technical support for immunization system strengthening, with a focus on vaccine cold chain resilience. Key responsibilities include developing and implementing contingency plans for cold chain emergencies, and conducting simulation exercises (SimEx) at national vaccine logistic operator warehouses to test response protocols and identify areas for improvement. The role involves participating in performance qualifications of Remote Temperature Monitoring (RTMS) systems in vaccine cold rooms to ensure their correct and reliable functioning. Furthermore, the consultant will contribute to training initiatives by preparing training content and agendas, and participating in online and in-person training sessions for cold chain staff at various levels (national, regional, and healthcare facilities), with a specific focus on practical application of temperature monitoring tools and cold box usage, considering risks like vaccine freezing. The consultant may also be involved in reviewing and summarizing SimEx findings and recommendations for the Ministry of Health and other relevant bodies.

Work Experience

Essential: Minimum of two years of experience in Cold Chain & Vaccine Management, or Vaccine-preventable diseases surveillance and Immunization. Desirable: Experience conducting SimEx for cold chain emergencies, performance qualifications for RTMS, working with WHO or other international organizations, and prior experience in Ukraine.

Skills

Excellent communication and report writing skills in English and Ukrainian. Strong analytical skills. Ability to present findings and draw practical conclusions. Interpersonal skills for effective work in multicultural environments. Proficiency in English and Ukrainian is essential.

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