What is Flucelvax?
Flucelvax is a vaccine that helps protect against seasonal influenza viruses. It is designed to stimulate the immune system to produce antibodies that can fight off the flu. This vaccine is made using a cell-based manufacturing process, which involves growing the flu virus in animal cells instead of using chicken eggs.
Importance of Proper Storage
When it comes to vaccines, proper storage is crucial. Vaccines need to be stored at specific temperatures to maintain their effectiveness. If a vaccine is not stored properly, it may lose its potency and become less effective in preventing the flu.
Refrigeration Guidelines for Flucelvax
According to the manufacturer’s guidelines, Flucelvax should be stored in a refrigerator between 2°C and 8°C (36°F and 46°F). It is essential to keep the vaccine at a consistently cool temperature to ensure its quality and effectiveness.
How Long Can Flucelvax be Out of the Refrigerator?
Although Flucelvax needs to be stored in a refrigerator, it is important to note that it can be out of the fridge for a certain period without compromising its effectiveness. Flucelvax can generally be kept at room temperature for up to 12 hours.
Exceptions to the Rule
While 12 hours is the general guideline for how long Flucelvax can be out of the refrigerator, there are a few exceptions to this rule. If the temperature outside the fridge exceeds 25°C (77°F), the vaccine should not be left at room temperature for more than 1 hour. Similarly, if the temperature goes above 30°C (86°F), Flucelvax should be discarded if it has been out of the refrigerator for more than 30 minutes.
Ensuring Vaccine Potency
To ensure that Flucelvax remains potent, it is essential to follow proper storage guidelines. Here are a few tips on how to store the vaccine correctly:
Use a dedicated refrigerator:
It is best to store vaccines in a dedicated refrigerator used solely for this purpose. This helps maintain a consistent temperature and eliminates the risk of contamination from other items in the fridge.
Monitor temperature:
Regularly monitor the temperature of the refrigerator where the Flucelvax is stored. A digital thermometer can be used to ensure that the temperature remains within the recommended range.
Store it properly in the fridge:
When storing Flucelvax in the refrigerator, place it on a middle shelf, away from the walls and the door. This ensures a more stable and consistent temperature.
Avoid freezing:
Freezing can damage vaccines, rendering them ineffective. Make sure Flucelvax does not come into contact with the freezer compartment of the refrigerator.
Transporting Flucelvax
Flucelvax may sometimes need to be transported from one location to another. Whether it is being carried to a vaccination center or being transported back to the storage facility, proper care must be taken to ensure its integrity.
Cold chain transportation:
Cold chain transportation is a method used to ensure that vaccines are transported at the correct temperature. This involves using insulated containers and cold packs to maintain the recommended temperature range.
Minimize time out of the refrigerator:
During transport, it is crucial to minimize the time that Flucelvax is out of the refrigerator. Plan the transportation in a way that ensures minimal exposure to higher temperatures.
Monitor temperature during transport:
Using temperature-monitoring devices during transport can provide real-time updates on the temperature inside the container. This helps identify any deviations from the recommended range.
Conclusion
Proper storage and transportation of Flucelvax are essential to ensure its effectiveness in preventing the flu. Remember to store the vaccine in a refrigerator at the recommended temperature range. If the vaccine needs to be transported, use cold chain methods and minimize time out of the refrigerator. By following these guidelines, healthcare professionals can ensure that Flucelvax remains safe and effective for vaccination purposes.