• Take out 2 ice packs from the freezer and condition the ice packs by placing them on a desk/counter until small beads of water form (approx. 20-40 min.).
• Place two insulating blankets that have been pre-conditioned in the fridge between 2-8°C, in the cooler.
• Place the min/max thermometer probe inside an empty vaccine box and position in between the two insulating blankets. (Note: The thermometer display should be displayed/attached on the outside of the cooler)
• Place the two conditioned ice packs on top of the insulating blankets.
• The cooler must be within 2-8°C prior to packing vaccine.
• For transport of vaccines, wrap the inner insulating blanket around the vaccines and the min/max thermometer probe and place at the bottom of the cooler.
• Again, Place the two ice packs on top of the outer insulating blanket.

Temperature Control (2–8°C)

Temperature control is paramount when transporting vaccines. If the temperatures is too hot (above +8°C) or too cold (below +2°C) it will destroy the vaccines. Below are two decision trees to help assist you in what to do if the temperature deviates outside the recommended levels.

Cold Chain: Temperature is Below +2°C
(PDF) Huron County Health Unit, June 2009.

Cold Chain: Temperature is Above +8°C
(PDF) Huron County Health Unit, June 2009.

Cold Chain Failure

If cold chain failure occurs contact the Health Unit immediately. As well, complete the Cold Chain Failure Report (below) and send to the Health Unit immediately.

Cold Chain Failure Report (PDF)
Huron County Health Unit, May 2009.
Document cold chain failures and send to the Health Unit.

Contact & More Information

Contact the Health Unit if you have any questions surrounding vaccines. Call the Health Unit at 519.482.3416 or 1.877.837.6143.