Mastering cold chain management for flu vaccines

As the 2024-2025 flu vaccine program rolls out from September 1st, healthcare providers need to prepare for the anticipated increase in vaccinations. The effectiveness of flu vaccines depends on careful cold chain management. This means handling and storing vaccines correctly from when they are made until they are given to patients.

This guide explains the principles of keeping the cold chain intact, the key technical details for storing vaccines, and answer common questions about vaccine refrigeration. Whether you’re running a large vaccination clinic or managing a local practice, following these guidelines will help keep your flu vaccines effective and safe.

Cold chain management for preserving vaccine potency

Maintaining the cold chain is vital for preserving flu vaccine efficacy from manufacture to administration.

3 key factors for maintaining the cold chain in vaccine storage:

1. Keep flu vaccines at a temperature range between +2°C and +8°C in line with MHRA regulations.
2. Monitor frequently by checking temperatures daily, preferably twice – at shift start and end.
3. Use vaccine-grade medical refrigerators with calibrated data loggers.

Key technical specifications for vaccine storage

Temperature monitoring

Temperature monitoring should follow the Green Book which gives details of the four Rs: Read, Record, Reset, React.

• Read: record temperature at least once every day during the working week and sign the temperature record sheet.
• Record: Use a standard form to include current, maximum, and minimum temperature readings.
• Reset: Zero the thermometer after each reading.
• React: Take immediate action if the temperature deviates from the +2°C to +8°C range.

We advise using an additional thermometer alongside the built-in one in the medical refrigerator. This second thermometer helps cross-check the accuracy of the temperature readings and monitors the temperature if the power supply to the vaccination fridge is interrupted.

Data loggers

While data loggers offer convenient continuous monitoring, they should complement, not replace, daily manual checks.

·       Keep a routine of reading and recording temperatures from the integral fridge thermometer, including minimum, maximum, and current readings.

·       Reset the min/max thermometer after each check.

This daily practice ensures that fridge contents have been stored correctly and are safe to use. Relying solely on data loggers with weekly or monthly checks can be risky, as you might miss cold chain breaches. Daily manual checks provide an essential safety net for your vaccine storage practices.

Expert answers to Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: What is the maximum time vaccines can be left out of refrigeration?

A: Flu vaccines should not exceed 20 minutes outside the +2°C to +8°C range. Beyond this, vaccines must be quarantined and tested for effectiveness.

Q: How frequently should I monitor the temperature of my medical fridge?

A: We recommend checking twice a day. Our data loggers provide continuous monitoring with programmable recording intervals.

Q: What should I do if the temperature of my vaccine fridge goes out of range?

A: If vaccines are stored outside the recommended 2-8°C range, immediately quarantine them and keep them at the correct temperature. Report the incident right away and document all details, including the time, temperature readings, and any actions taken.

Q: Can I use a standard refrigerator for storing vaccines?

A: You should always use a specialised medical refrigerator designed for vaccine storage. These fridges have precise temperature control and data logging capabilities to make sure the vaccines remain within the critical cold-chain temperature range.

CoolMed’s leading cold storage solutions for vaccine storage

We offer a variety of medical fridges in different sizes, from compact solid door models to larger glass door units. For details on each size and its benefits, check out our guide.

Our CMS300 solid door refrigerator is ideal for storing large quantities of vaccines. Here’s why:

·       300-litre capacity: Extensive space for storing large quantities of vaccines and medications.

·       NHS Supply Chain approved: Meets rigorous standards for medical-grade refrigeration.

·       Precise temperature control: iCool built-in probe accurately monitors and stabilises vaccine temperatures.

·       Accurate data logging: 24/7 automatic temperature recording with min/max display.

·       Alarm system: Audible and visual alerts for temperature deviations, power failures, and open doors.

·       Safe and secure: Self-closing door with lock provides security and temperature stability.

·       External digital controller: Easy temperature monitoring and adjustment without opening the door.

·       Battery backup: Maintains temperature display and alarms during power outages.

·       Energy-efficient LED lighting: Clear visibility of contents with minimal heat generation.

·       Environmentally friendly: Uses R600a refrigerant to reduce environmental impact.

·       Long-term protection: Standard warranty is 5 years but can be extended to 10 years for additional peace of mind.

Fast and efficient delivery of medical fridges to your practice

Understanding the urgency of vaccine supply during flu season, we offer next working day delivery for all orders placed before 12 noon, provided payment or a purchase order (PO) is received by that time. This commitment ensures that healthcare providers receive essential supplies promptly, helping them to manage their stock effectively and respond swiftly to patient needs.

Medical fridge maintenance for long-term reliability

Long-term peace of mind is provided by the standard 5-year warranty that comes with most of our medical fridges and freezers. We also provide options to extend this warranty up to 5 years, so your investment will continue to be supported and protected for even longer after the initial term.

If you have concerns about the performance of your vaccination fridge, we offer annual medical fridge and freezer servicing performed by qualified EBME engineers. Our calibration service includes maintenance and compliance tests to ensure that vaccination and medication storage comply with MHRA regulations.

By following these guidelines and using our cold storage solutions, healthcare providers can maintain the integrity of their flu vaccine supply throughout the 2024 season. For further information on vaccine storage best practices, refer to our comprehensive guide: Vaccine Storage Tips for COVID-19 and Flu Vaccinations.