Abstract
BACKGROUND: Veterinary vaccines have proven to be cost-effective for preventing animal diseases, increasing the efficiency of food production, and reducing or preventing the transmission of zoonotic and foodborne infections to humans. OBJECTIVE: The objective of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of cattle vaccination and determine the major constraints affecting cattle vaccination coverage, efficacy, practices, and vaccine delivery systems. METHODS: The study was conducted in eight peasant associations of th Mekelle and Kilteawlaelo districts from November 2021 to June 2022 to evaluate the effectiveness and challenges of cattle vaccinations. A total of 120 cattle owners were randomly selected, and all 40 veterinarians were included through a census for data collection. Observations were made at veterinary clinics across the study areas. Descriptive and inferential statistical methods were used to analyse the data. RESULTS: About 25% of farmers reported vaccines as effective, whereas the majority (75%) considered them ineffective. The use of expired vaccines and vaccinations conducted during outbreaks were the main reasons for ineffectiveness. Around 80% of veterinarians also reported encountering vaccine ineffectiveness. CONCLUSIONS: Both animal health professionals and cattle owners perceived vaccines as ineffective due to transportation challenges, inadequate research on vaccine strains, and cross-immunity issues. Lack of training, shortage of vaccines at each level, refusal to receive vaccinations from farmers, shortage of veterinary services and infrastructure, limited focus on the sector, and a weak administrative scheme are the drawbacks and constraints that need to be addressed.