Storage and Handling for Hib Vaccines

Proper vaccine storage and handling practices play an important role in protecting individuals and communities from vaccine-preventable diseases. For general recommendations and guidance, see Vaccine Storage and Handling. Provided below is guidance specific to Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) vaccines.

Temperature

• Store all Hib-containing vaccine refrigerated between 2°C and 8°C (36°F and 46°F).
• Do not freeze vaccine or diluents, or expose to freezing temperatures. If the vaccine has been exposed to inappropriate conditions/temperatures or handled improperly:
  • Store the vaccine at the appropriate temperature
  • Isolate from other vaccines
  • Mark “Do NOT Use”
  • Consult the vaccine manufacturer and/or your state or local immunization program for guidance

Storage

• Store Hib vaccine in the original packaging.
  • For Hib vaccines that require reconstitution (Pentacel^®, ActHIB^®, Hiberix^®), the manufacturer packages the diluent and vaccine together. They should be stored together in the refrigerator.

Reconstitution

• For Hib vaccines that require reconstitution (Pentacel^®, ActHIB^®, Hiberix^®), do NOT use if you cannot resuspend the reconstituted vaccine after thorough agitation.
  • Only reconstitute the ActHIB^® in Pentacel^® with the DTaP-IPV liquid provided by the manufacturer.
  • Only reconstitute the single-antigen ActHIB^® with the 0.4% sodium chloride provided by the vaccine manufacturer.
  • Only reconstitute Hiberix^® with the 0.9% sodium chloride provided by the vaccine manufacturer.
  • Never use stock vials of normal saline to reconstitute these vaccines.

Disposal

• Discard vaccine vials and syringes using proper medical waste disposal procedures.

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