Measles, mumps, polio, rubella, whooping cough, chickenpox, cholera, diphtheria, meningitis, rotavirus, typhoid. Alarming diseases, but highly preventable.
The success of battling these vaccine-preventable diseases relies in large part to proper storage and handling of vaccines. Namely, maintaining proper temperatures in the entire cold chain; from the time of manufacture to administration of the vaccine. While this may sound like an onerous task, it’s really quite simple.
Unfortunately, many hospitals and doctor’s offices do not follow CDC guidelines for monitoring and maintaining adequate storage temperatures. A recent incident at APD Memorial Hospital in Lebanon, NH reveals critical lapses in storage guidelines. Unsafe temperatures rendered some vaccines ineffective, leaving over 800 children vulnerable to otherwise preventable diseases. Their system relied on a staff member manually noting refrigerator temperatures. CDC guidelines require twice daily refrigerator temperature checks; the hospital had only two entries for a refrigerator in a one month period.
Disturbingly, this happens with even more frequency at physician offices. Studies by the OIG show that 76% of providers stored vaccines at improper temperatures. Doctor’s offices are closed during weekends – what happens if a refrigerator malfunctions then? Does anyone even know? And more importantly, how do we know the vaccines given to our children are safe and effective? Are our children adequately protected from preventable diseases?
Mesa Labs Point Six™ Wireless temperature sensors monitor refrigerator and freezer temperatures and alert staff real time to temperature breaches and equipment malfunctions. Automated temperature logs are available for regulatory reports at any given time. Vaccines and other temperature sensitive medications are protected against equipment malfunctions, and human error, protecting our most precious asset: our children.
To learn more about Mesa Labs Point Six Wireless temperature sensors for safe vaccine and medication storage visit www.pointsix.com or contact Mark Fauber at mfauber@mesalabs.com.