Presentation and packaging
The way that vaccines are formulated, packaged, and labeled can dramatically impact the success of their use, particularly in low-resource settings. The number of doses per container affects vaccine wastage rates and cold chain space requirements. A decision to provide a vaccine in a freeze-dried format usually has a positive outcome in terms of enhanced stability, but requires that the vaccine be provided in two containers (one for the freeze-dried vaccine and the other for the diluents) with an added reconstitution step prior to administration. Minimizing the volumes of vaccine containers and packaging can help to reduce negative environmental impacts as well as reduce shipping and storage costs.
The handling, management, and use of vaccines are becoming increasingly complex as more new vaccines and related technologies become available. PATH is working to optimize the presentation and packaging for new vaccines through participation in the Vaccine Presentation and Packaging Advisory Group. PATH is also developing and advancing innovations in the formulation, presentation, and delivery of vaccines with which it is involved. Visit PATH’s website to learn more about its work in vaccine presentation and packaging.
View resources on presentation and packaging
Key resources
Generic Preferred Product Profile (gPPP) (2009)
A document that provides guidance on preferred presentations and packaging for vaccines intended for public‐sector use in developing countries.
Getting Started With Vaccine Vial Monitors: Questions and Answers on Field Operations (2002)
A training manual that addresses and answers important questions about using vaccine vial monitors in the field.
Featured PATH resources
Vaccine Vial Monitors: FAQs (2011)
A fact sheet that answers the most frequently asked questions regarding vaccine vial monitors.
Reading Time-Temperature Indicators With the Uniject® Device (2009)
A job aid that illustrates how to read time-temperature indicators with the Uniject® device, which is an autodisable, prefilled, single-use syringe that can be used with vaccines.
Page last updated: May 2012.
