How long can a tick vaccine be stored in a refrigerator? - briefly
The vaccine remains stable for up to four weeks when stored at 2‑8 °C in a refrigerator, provided the vial is unopened and handled according to the manufacturer’s instructions. After this period, potency may decline and the product should be discarded.
How long can a tick vaccine be stored in a refrigerator? - in detail
The recommended refrigeration period for a tick vaccine depends on the product’s formulation, manufacturer specifications, and whether the vial remains unopened or has been reconstituted.
Unopened vials, stored at 2‑8 °C, typically retain potency for 12 to 24 months from the date of manufacture. Stability studies cited by manufacturers show that the active antigen remains within acceptable limits throughout this interval, provided the cold chain is uninterrupted.
Once reconstituted, the vaccine’s usable lifespan shortens dramatically. Most guidelines permit storage at 2‑8 °C for 4 to 7 days. After this window, a decline in antigenic activity is documented, and the vaccine must be discarded.
Key factors influencing storage duration include:
- Temperature excursions beyond the 2‑8 °C range
- Exposure to light or repeated freeze‑thaw cycles
- Container integrity (sealed versus opened)
- Presence of preservatives in the formulation
Manufacturers often label the vial with a “use‑by” date after reconstitution. Compliance with that date is mandatory to maintain efficacy and safety.
If a vaccine is transferred to a secondary container, the same 4‑to‑7‑day limit applies, and the container must be clearly labeled with the preparation date and expiration time.
In practice, veterinary clinics should implement a tracking system that records:
- Manufacture date of each batch
- Date of opening or reconstitution
- Exact storage temperature logs
- Disposition of any doses beyond the approved period
Adhering to these protocols ensures that the immunization remains effective against tick‑borne diseases. «Proper cold‑chain management is the primary determinant of vaccine stability».