In the face of unprecedented global health challenges, the importance of efficient and reliable vaccine storage cannot be overstated. Ultra-low temperature (ULT) freezers have emerged as invaluable tools in the battle against infectious diseases.
In this blog, we will explore the crucial role ULT freezers play in vaccine storage and their significance in supporting global health efforts during these challenging times.
What is an ultra-low temperature freezer?
Ultra-low temperature freezers, often referred to as ULT freezers, are specially designed for storing temperature-sensitive materials at extremely low temperatures, typically ranging from -45°C to -86°C.
These laboratory freezers provide a stable and temperature controlled environment for preserving biological samples, medications, and vaccines.
Why are ULT freezers important in the healthcare industry?
1. Preserving Vaccine Integrity
Ultra-low temperature freezers play a pivotal role in preserving the integrity of vaccines. Many vaccines can be affected by changes in temperature, and even slight variations from the cold chain, the prescribed storage conditions, can make them unusable. The cold chain refers to the recommended temperature range medications and vaccines should be stored in.
ULT freezers maintain a consistent ultra-low temperature, ensuring that vaccines remain potent and safe for administration, even after long periods of storage.
2. Long-Term Storage
The ultra-low temperatures maintained by these freezers allow for long-term vaccine storage. This is particularly important for stockpiling vaccines, which may be needed during emergencies or for ongoing vaccination programs.
3. Temperature Uniformity
ULT lab freezers are equipped with advanced cooling systems that provide uniform temperature distribution throughout the internal chamber. This helps to prevent any significant temperature fluctuations and ensures that every medication and vaccine stored inside the freezer is exposed to the same temperature conditions to remain in the cold chain.
Supporting Vaccination Campaigns Worldwide
As the world deals with the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, the demand for vaccines has surged. ULT freezers have now become instrumental in supporting vaccination campaigns worldwide.
The distribution and storage of COVID-19 vaccines, many of which require ultra-low temperatures, have highlighted the importance of ULT freezers. They have been crucial in ensuring that vaccines such as the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines remain viable and ready for use whenever they might be required.
Beyond COVID-19, ultra low temperature freezers play a pivotal role in the storage of other vaccines for diseases like polio, measles, and influenza. These vaccines are essential for global health efforts aimed at eradicating preventable diseases, and will often require annual rollout.
Aside from assisting with scheduled vaccine seasons, ultra low freezers are vital tools in emergency response situations. Whether it’s a sudden disease outbreak or a humanitarian crisis, having ULT freezers readily available to healthcare professionals, this allows for a swift and effective vaccination rollout.
Considerations to make when buying a ULT freezer
While high performance ULT freezers are indispensable, there are some considerations to make before purchasing. Ultra-low temperature freezers are an investment, so it is important to make sure that your healthcare facility has the storage capacity to accommodate this large piece of equipment so you can use it to its full potential.
Additionally, ULT freezers require proper maintenance, and calibration is critical to ensure the consistent performance of a medical freezer. Regular checks and servicing will need to be performed and are essential to prevent temperature fluctuations. Our CoolMed Calibration Services make it quick and easy to schedule your calibration appointments.
Our specialist EBME engineers use the latest equipment to ensure precise calibration. This helps healthcare professionals to prevent the wastage of critical medical products.
Come and talk to our team
An ULT freezers ability to provide ultra-low temperature storage solutions is instrumental in preserving the potency and efficacy of vaccines. From COVID-19 to other preventable diseases, ULT freezers play a pivotal role in supporting global health efforts.
If you would like to speak to a member of our sales team about our ultra low temperature freezers, you can contact us at info@coolmed.co.uk or call us on +44 161 772 5666.
