


Purpose-built units are sometimes referred to as “pharmaceutical grade” and are designed specifically for storage of biologics. Refrigerators typically used for vaccine storage are available in different grades (household and purpose-built) and types (stand-alone and combination refrigerator/freezer).

Keep standard operating procedures (SOPs) for storage and handling near storage units and make sure staff knows where to find them.ĬDC recommends that storage and handling training should be done: For example, inactivated vaccines, even when exposed to freezing temperatures, may not appear frozen, giving no indication of reduced or lost potency.Īll staff members who receive deliveries and/or handle or administer vaccines should be familiar with storage and handling policies and procedures at your facility. Vaccine appearance is not a reliable indicator that vaccines have been stored in appropriate conditions.Liquid vaccines that contain an aluminum adjuvant can permanently lose potency when exposed to freezing temperatures. While exposure to any inappropriate conditions can affect potency of refrigerated vaccines, a single exposure to freezing temperatures (0° C or colder) will destroy some.For specific, detailed storage and handling protocols for individual vaccines always refer to the manufacturers’ product information and package inserts, or contact the manufacturer directly.The thermostat should be set at midrange to achieve a temperature of about 5° C (40° F), which will decrease the likelihood of temperature excursions. Refrigerated vaccines should be stored at temperatures between 2° C and 8° C (36° F and 46° F).Department of Health and Human ServicesĬenter for Disease Control and Prevention (June 2016)

#Rabies vaccine serial number full#
*Please refer to the full online version of the CDC Vaccine Storage & Handling Toolkit for more information and to verify you have the most current information. For frequently asked questions and more information, click here.
