B2.

Sensitivity to Cold

 Vaccines are also sensitive to cold temperature

 Freezing or exposure to temperature below 0 can cause loss of potency

B3. Sensitivity to Light

 BCG and measles vaccines are sensitive to sunlight and fluorescent light
 Supplied in dark brown vials which protects against light damage
 Must be kept covered to avoid light exposure

B4. Expiry Date

 All vaccines including diluents, have an expiry date

 Expired vials should be exposed immediately

C. Diluents

 Contain chemicals and additives to stabilize a specific vaccine after reconstitution

 Diluents are not interchangeable

Correct Conditions for Storing Diluents for EPI Vaccines

 Sufficient diluent for daily needs should be kept in the cold chain at the point of vaccine use
 Diluent vials/ampules must never be frozen or allowed to be in contact with any frozen surface
to avoid breakage and contamination

Target Population Size

 Accurate target population estimate is essential in forecasting vaccine requirements

Reserve Stock

 Reserve or buffer, stock is quantity of vaccine that can be used for delayed supplies or sudden
increase in demand

Stock on Hand

 Adequate amounts are available

 Space is available to store the stock
 Vaccine is used before the expiry date
 Storage duration is consistent with recommendations

Supply Intervals

Health Facility Level Minimum delivery period

National Store 6 months

Regional 3 months

Provincial/ City 3 months

Municipal/City Health Center 1 month

Vaccination Post Per session

Vaccine Vial Size

 Vaccines come in one-, two-,five-,ten-, and 20 dose vials depending on the vaccine