In the summer of 2011, new data from Merck pertaining to the use of dry ice for transporting frozen vaccine led to cautioning against its use. "Without the use of dry ice, our health district had absolutely no way to transport varicella or zoster vaccine," said Kim Whetzel, RN. After researching options, Ms. Whetzel proposed purchasing two portable refrigerator/freezer vaccine coolers that are powered by battery, AC/DC, or solar power. The coolers efficiently cool to -15 degrees C in one hour and can maintain acceptable frozen vaccine temperature for up to 4 days on battery power alone.
While researching vaccine temperature stability during transport, Ms. Whetzel noted that current best practice recommendations required the use of hard-sided coolers. Replacing soft-sided coolers with hard-sided coolers is an inexpensive improvement that all vaccine providers should consider.
The district takes advantage of data loggers, as well. The download from the loggers can be reviewed to determine if temperature fluctuations occurred. The loggers were particularly helpful in confirming vaccine viability when a combination unit that was having difficulty maintaining acceptable vaccine temperatures couldn't be monitored each day, over a 3 day weekend.
The VVFC program recognizes that Central Shenandoah Health District is involved with many other community outreach and preparedness initiatives in addition to their excellence in storage and handling of vaccine. Keep up the good work!
Immunization Champions are nominated by VVFC staff.