Our thoughts are with everyone affected by Cyclone Gabrielle and the associated disruption this is causing across parts of Aotearoa.

This is the first update on cold chain for those affected by the impact of the cyclone and more advice will follow.

We describe two process flows for those affected by the cyclone depending on whether you have access to your site or not. Please do not attempt to access your clinic/pharmacy to check vaccine cold chain if it is not safe.

A. For those providers who are able to safely access their clinics/pharmacy and are wanting to know what do with your vaccines

• If your fridge is running between +2˚C and +8˚C, then leave your vaccines in the fridge.
• Download your data logger to check the temperature data. If there has been a breach, complete a cold chain breach form and contact your local immunisation coordinator for advice.
• Do not use or return vaccines for destruction unless advised to do so by your immunisation coordinator or the IMAC advisor.
• Keep the vaccines in the cold chain (+2˚C to +8˚C).

If your power is still off or your fridge is not working:

• Ensure that your temperature monitoring equipment is working. Use your back up min/max digital thermometer if necessary.
• If it is safe to transport your vaccines (in the cold chain, with the data logger) to your back up provider, please do this. Refer to your cold chain policy for details.
• If your back up provider is without power or does not have space – discuss with your immunisation coordinator.

B. If is not safe to access your clinic/pharmacy please do not try to do so

When it is safe to access your clinic/pharmacy, please download your datalogger. If there has been a breach, complete a cold chain breach form and contact your local immunisation coordinator for advice. Do not use or discard your vaccines until you have received advice from your immunisation coordinator or an IMAC advisor.

*If you are transporting your vaccine please ensure that all chilly bins are monitored during this time, as this information is required for a decision to be made about their use at a later date. All providers should have chilly bins, ice pack, insulation and monitoring equipment for transport.

If you are unable to contact your local immunisation coordinator please call IMAC on 0800 466 863.

More cold chain resources can be found here. Here is the cold chain temperature breach flow chart for your convenience.