Real time and accelerated stability studies of tetanus toxoid manufactured in public sector facilities of Pakistan

Tetanus is an acute illness represented by comprehensive increased inflexibility and spastic spasms of skeletal muscles. The poor quality tetanus toxoid vaccine can raise the prevalence of neonatal tetanus. WHO has taken numerous steps to assist national regulatory authorities and vaccine manufacturers to ensure its quality and efficacy. It has formulated international principles for stability evaluation of each vaccine, which are available in the form of recommendations and guidelines. The aim of present study was to ensure the stability of tetanus vaccines produced by National Institute of Health, Islamabad, Pakistan by employing standardized methods to ensure constancy of tetanus toxoid at elevated temperature, if during storage/transportation cold chain may not be maintained in hot weather. A total of three batches filled during full-scale production were tested. All Stability studies determination were performed on final products stored at 2-8 Degree C and elevated temperatures in conformance with the ICH Guideline of Stability Testing of Biological Products. These studies gave comparison between real time shelf-life stability and accelerated stability studies. The findings indicate long-term thermo stability and prove that this tetanus vaccine can remain efficient under setting of routine use when suggested measures for storage and handling are followed in true spirit

Needs assessment for nursing faculty development program in Pakistan

An observational study was conducted from March to April 2007and data was collected from all nursing schools in the country as well as from other external sources to assess the needs of nursing faculty in Pakistan. There were a total of 14 nursing degree programs in Pakistan with 97 faculty members and an annual enrolment of 711 students. Over the next five years, the annual student enrollment is expected to rise to 1,200. To meet these needs, an additional 291 nursing faculty will be required, including 20 Professors/ Associate Professors with PhD and 250 Assistant Professors with MScN degrees. A five year program has been developed for the training of the nursing faculty at an estimated cost of 1512.25 million Pakistani rupees. In order to promote nursing higher education in the country, comprehensive efforts are needed to implement a comprehensive faculty development program