ABSTRACT:
A Digital Twin can be understood as a representation of a real asset, in other words, a virtual replica of a physical object, process or system. As virtual models, they can integrate with technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), Cloud Computing and Artificial Intelligence (AI). Digital twins have applications in a wide range of sectors, from manufacturing and engineering to healthcare. They have been used to manage healthcare facilities, streamline care processes, personalise treatments, and support patient recovery. TwinVax is a digital twin system developed to enhance the management of immunisation services in primary health care centres. It leverages Industry 4.0 technologies, including IoT, machine learning and cloud computing, to support operational processes and public health goals. The architecture of TwinVax is aligned with ISO 23247 and is organised into four layers: the observable layer, the data collection and device control layer, the digital twin platform, and the user domain. At the physical level, sensors monitor temperature conditions in ice-lined refrigerators (ILRs) and thermal boxes, ensuring vaccines are stored within safe temperature ranges. These data are continuously processed, enabling the detection of deviations and the triggering of early alerts in real time, helping prevent vaccine spoilage and reduce wastage due to cold chain failures.On the digital side, the platform cross-references individual vaccination records with the national immunisation calendar, enabling the identification of missed doses and the generation of alerts for patients and health teams. It also supports visualisation of local vaccination coverage to plan targeted outreach actions. TwinVax integrates data, analytics and public health standards to support preventive, equitable and safe immunisation services.