Always ensure vaccines are stored inline with the SmPC (summary of product characteristics) under ‘Special precautions for storage’. Vaccine may lose effectiveness if kept outside the recommended temperature range.

This is equally important for both transportation and storage. The ‘cold chain’ for vaccines must remain between +2°C and +8°C until the point of administration

Have a process for monitoring expiry dates – Label and dispose of any ‘out of date’ stock according to local policies. 

Vaccines must never be used past their expiry date.

When stored in the refrigerator

• Best practice to aim for 5°C
• Must be sufficient space for air to circulate around packs
• Keep away from walls of fridge to avoid freezing
• Rotate stock to ensure stock nearest expiry date used first
• Regularly monitor and record temperature

Disposal

Local policy and procedures should always be followed.

All equipment used for vaccination should be disposed of in a proper "sharps bin"

Sharps bins should be sealed and replaced when 2/3rds full – follow local contractual procedures for disposal.