Cold chain and vaccine management

Vaccines are delicate biological substances and must be stored between +2 degrees Celsius and +8 degrees Celsius and in accordance with the National Vaccine Storage Guidelines 'Strive for 5'.

Essential steps in proper cold chain management

To be confident that you are maintaining vaccines' potency, practices must:

  • have a reliable refrigerator capable of maintaining a stable temperature. Ensure the fridge is big enough for the practice’s storage needs and how frequently you order vaccines
  • develop clearly documented processes to maintain the cold chain. This may include identifying potential situations that risk vaccine potency and implementing appropriate management strategies
  • ensure that all practice staff handling vaccines receive ongoing training that is appropriate for the responsibilities of their role
  • monitor and record the maximum and minimum temperature of refrigerators used to store vaccines at least twice a day and before using any vaccines
  • know what to do (including reporting and documentation) if the refrigerator temperature varied outside the recommended range of 2–8ºC.

Cold Chain Breaches (CCB)

Vaccines exposed to temperatures outside this range may have to be considered ineffective and may need to be discarded.

Do not use or discard vaccines exposed to temperatures below +2°C or above +8°C without getting further advice. For National Immunisation Program vaccines, isolate them and contact the Queensland Health Immunisation Program for advice. For privately purchased vaccines contact the manufacturer or supplier.

In the event of a CCB, vaccine service providers should:

  • Immediately isolate the affected vaccines. Do not use them.
  • Complete a cold chain breach report form. The person who noted the breach should complete the form.
  • Email the completed form to QHIP-ADMIN@health.qld.gov.au. Include ‘COLD CHAIN BREACH’ in the email subject line.
  • QHIP will respond to your email as soon as possible with advice.

Contact Practice Support

Monday to Friday from 8.00 am to 4.00 pm 
Phone:07 3490 3495   

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