10 ms·
Hi, author of the post here. I tried to include some info on temperature requirements and how cold chain distribution works, but it's hard to capture that compr
by jonemo 6y ago
Hi, author of the post here. I tried to include some info on temperature requirements and how cold chain distribution works, but it's hard to capture that comprehensively because it varies a lot geographically.
While I do appreciate how difficult it is to distribute the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine at -70 C, I am still puzzled by how deep into the distribution this temperature gets maintained. As far as I know, the spec is that the vaccine can be stored (and transported) at regular fridge temperatures for up to 5 days. It seems like everyone (in the US anyway) is focused on maintaining -70C all the way to the point of use. What about the alternative of thawing it at some distribution center and focusing efforts on getting it into a person within five days after that?
- hef19898 6y agoThat's a good question. I didn't research the temp requirements that deep myself yet. Instead I worked from what I read online and in the press. Which is also the way it works in Germany. Now I am intrigued so, I will see what I can find. EDIT: This really is frustrating. Either I am unable to google stuff or there really is no data sheet on the Biontech vaccine available online. All I found is nice pictures and text without numbers at Pfizer's website and second hand interviews of Biontech CFO saying the vaccine can be stored up to 5 days in a fridge. Real transparency doesn't seem to be a thing with everything Covid-19.
- jonemo 6y agoThis Pfizer site is intended for healthcare providers in the US so technically not meant for your eyes, but it has all the info: https://www.cvdvaccine-us.com/product-storage-and-dry-ice https://www.cvdvaccine-us.com/product-storage-and-dry-ice The equivalent page for Germany where BioNTech distributes the same vaccine: https://www.comirnatyeducation.de/resources.html https://www.comirnatyeducation.de/resources.html