Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
The transfer of East Coast fever immunisation to veterinary paraprofessionals in Zambia.
- Journal:
- Revue scientifique et technique (International Office of Epizootics)
- Year:
- 2008
- Authors:
- Marcotty, T et al.
- Affiliation:
- Department of Animal Health
Plain-English summary
In eastern Zambia, a serious cattle disease called East Coast fever can be controlled through a method known as "infection and treatment," which used to be offered for free. However, when a small fee was introduced, fewer people showed up for the service. To improve access, the program was handed over to veterinary paraprofessionals, who are trained individuals working independently. They received motorbikes and equipment to help them provide the immunization, but they had to cover their own fuel and medicine costs. Despite the fee, the program succeeded because the paraprofessionals communicated well with cattle owners, worked hard, and delivered clear results.
Abstract
In eastern Zambia, immunisation by 'infection and treatment' is the main method used to control East Coast fever, an acute and lethal cattle disease. This service, which requires a stringent cold chain, used to be free of charge. When a minimal user fee was introduced, attendance dropped drastically. Consequently, this complex immunisation programme was transferred to veterinary paraprofessionals working on their own account, with the aim of boosting a more sustainable distribution of vaccine. Paraprofessionals were provided with a motorbike and the required specific equipment, but fuel and drugs were at their expenses. The paraprofessionals recovered their costs, with a profit margin, by charging the cattle owners for immunisation. The reasons for the successful transfer of immunisation to paraprofessionals (despite the maintenance of a fee) are attributed mainly to the absence of information asymmetry between the paraprofessional and the livestock owner, the appreciable level of effort of the paraprofessionals and the verifiable outcome of the service provided.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19284042/