How long should a tick vaccine not be wet? - briefly
The vaccine must remain completely dry from packaging until administration; any moisture exposure should be avoided throughout its entire storage period, up to the indicated expiration date.
How long should a tick vaccine not be wet? - in detail
The vaccine intended to protect against tick‑borne diseases must remain free of moisture from the moment it is removed from its sealed container until it is administered. Manufacturer specifications typically require that the product be kept dry for the entire shelf‑life, which can range from 12 to 24 months depending on the brand. Once the vial is opened, the dry‑only rule continues for the remaining usable period, usually no more than 28 days, provided the seal is intact and the vial is stored at the recommended temperature (2–8 °C).
Key points for maintaining a moisture‑free condition:
- Keep the vial in its original packaging until use; the outer foil or plastic wrapper acts as a barrier against humidity.
- Store the vaccine in a refrigerator with a dedicated compartment to avoid condensation from frequent door opening.
- Do not expose the vial to water, steam, or high‑humidity environments (e.g., bathrooms, kitchens) at any stage.
- If the vial is inadvertently wetted, discard it immediately; moisture can degrade the antigen and compromise efficacy.
For reconstituted vaccine (if applicable), the dry‑only requirement ends at the moment of dilution. After mixing with the diluent, the solution must be used within the time frame indicated by the label, typically 30–60 minutes, and stored at the same temperature range without additional moisture exposure.
Adhering strictly to these guidelines ensures the vaccine retains its intended protective properties and avoids loss of potency caused by hydrolytic degradation.