National Vaccine Storage Guidelines ‘Strive for 5’

The Vaccine Storage Guidelines 'Strive for 5' provides information and advice for vaccine storage management for Australian immunisation service providers, from medical practices to large hospitals, clinics and outreach providers.

‘Strive for 5’ refers to 5 degrees Celsius (°C) — that is, the point midway between +2°C and +8°C which is the temperature range recommended for vaccine storage. Many vaccines are damaged or destroyed at temperatures outside this range.

These guidelines:

• describe the best approach to ensure that clients receive effective and potent vaccines
• describe the ‘cold chain’ and provide advice on what should be done in the event of a cold chain breach
• include resources such as checklists, charts, posters and stickers