Thevaricella (chickenpox) vaccine(brand nameVarivax) is alive attenuated virus vaccinethat requires freezingto maintain stability.
* TheCDC and manufacturers (Merck) require that Varicella vaccine be stored in a freezer at:
* Temperature range: -50°C to -15°C (-58°F to +5°F)
* Acceptable range:-20°C to -10°C (-4°F to 14°F)
* Do NOT store in the refrigerator-Refrigeration deactivates the live virus, making the vaccine ineffective.
* Store in a stand-alone freezer(not in a refrigerator/freezer combo) to ensure temperature stability.
* B. In the refrigerator (2°C to 8°C/36°F to 46°F)##Incorrect.
* Refrigerationcompromises the vaccine's potency, leading to inactivation of the live virus.
* C. At room temperature (15°C to 30°C/59°F to 86°F)##Incorrect.
* Room temperature storage causes rapid degradation of the live virus, rendering the vaccine ineffective.
* D. In a warmer (30°C to 40°C/86°F to 104°F)##Incorrect & Unsafe.
* Thisdestroysthe vaccine and makes it completely ineffective.
* Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Vaccine Storage and Handling Guidelines- States that varicella vaccinesmust be stored in the freezer at -50°C to -15°C (-58°F to +5°F).
* Manufacturer (Merck) Guidelines for Varivax- Specifies strict freezer storage requirements.
* USP <797> & USP <800> Guidelines- Discuss vaccine stability and proper storage conditions.
* PTCB PTCE Exam Content Outline- Covers vaccine storage and handling protocols.
Proper Long-Term Storage Conditions for Varicella VaccineWhy Not the Other Options?Key References: