North Carolina Immunization Program (NCIP)
Requirements
Storage and Handling
***Please call the NCIP at 877-873-6247 to report any out of range
temperatures***
Impact of Power Outages on Vaccine Storage
In areas where vaccine supplies are affected by temporary power outages, this guidance may
be helpful:
- Take immediate action to correct improper vaccine storage conditions, including
inappropriate exposure to light and inappropriate exposure to storage temperatures outside
the recommended ranges. Isolate the affected vaccine, mark them "DO NOT USE", and store
under appropriate conditions in a properly functioning vaccine storage unit. Do not allow
the vaccine to remain in a nonfunctioning unit. Document actions taken on the temperature
log. Call the NCIP at 877-873-6247 to report any out of range
temperatures.
- Monitor temperatures; don't discard; don't administer affected vaccines until you have
discussed with North Carolina Immunization Program.
If the power outage is ongoing:
-
Continue to monitor temperatures if possible. Do not open units to check temperatures
during the power outage. Instead, record the temperature as soon as possible after the
power is restored, and the duration of the outage. This will provide data on the maximum
temperature and maximum duration of exposures to elevated temperatures.
-
If alternative storage with reliable power sources are available (i.e., hospital with
generator power), transferring vaccines to that facility should be considered. Be sure
to transport the vaccines following proper cold chain procedures for storage and
handling. When packing for transport, you must include a temperature-monitoring device
to monitor the temperature of the vaccines during transport.
When power has been restored:
-
Record the temperature in the unit as soon as possible after power has been restored.
Continue to monitor the temperatures until they reach the normal 2 to 8 degrees Celsius
range in the refrigerator, or -15 to -50 degrees Celsius range in the freezer. Be sure
to record the duration of increased temperature exposure and the maximum temperature
observed.
-
Do not administer the vaccine until you have consulted the Immunization Program at
877-873-6247.
-
Keep exposed vaccine separated from any new product you receive and continue to store at
the proper temperature.
-
Do not discard any potentially exposed vaccine. We will be working with the vaccine
manufacturers to determine which vaccines may be viable.
Use these resources to properly store and handle state-supplied vaccine:
Vaccine Management Plans and Best Practices
Temperature Monitoring Tools