The Cold Chain process involves the transportation and storage of vaccines within the safe temperature range of 2oC - 8 oC at ALL times from manufacture to administration.If the cold chain is not maintained the vaccines may be inactivated or their shelf life reduced. Vaccines can be inactivated by getting too hot, freezing or exposure to light(direct sunlight or fluorescent light).
If you do not have a separate vaccine refrigerator keep vaccines in a closed Styrofoam container on the middle or upper shelves of the refrigerator. Put the minimum/maximum thermometer in the container with the vaccines.
If transporting vaccines wrap them or store in a smaller container and surround with Icepacks. Do not allow vaccines to directly contact Icepacks, as they tend to freeze.
.jpg)
What to do if you suspect the cold chain (2oC to 8oC)has not been maintained.
Isolate the suspected vaccines in the refrigerator in a labeled container; do not used until advised otherwise. Contact your state or territory vaccine distribution officer. Do not discard any vaccines unless directed to do so by your state or territory vaccine distribution officer.
