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July 16, 2026
Most of the vaccines distributed through MnVFC are shipped by CDC’s centralized vaccine distributor, McKesson. However, certain vaccines are shipped directly from manufacturers to UUAV-enrolled provider sites. These vaccines include varicella and MMR-varicella vaccines from Merck and COVID-19 vaccines from Pfizer.
In accordance with CDC contracts, they conduct an additional verification process to ensure deliveries are completed for these vaccines. As a part of this process, CDC contacts a random sample of provider sites that have recently received these vaccines. Your participation in this verification process is essential! CDC will reach out within a week of delivery by phone. After two unsuccessful phone calls, they will send an email to the vaccine coordinator at the site. It is important that these inquiries are responded to in a timely manner. Ensure your staff are informed of this verification process and that the verification calls are answered and routed appropriately for delivery verification.
Weather can be unpredictable in Minnesota this time of year. Being prepared can prevent the loss of valuable vaccine. Here are four easy steps you can take to prepare for possible vaccine emergencies.
- Review your Emergency Vaccine Management Plan
- It is required to develop, post, and prepare to follow a plan for transporting and storing vaccine in an emergency such as a power outage, natural disaster, or storage unit malfunction.
- The plan must be reviewed, signed, and dated each year or more often if there are changes.
- To access the downloadable and fillable form visit Worksheet for Developing an Emergency Plan for Managing Vaccine (PDF)
- Train staff on your Emergency Vaccine Management Plan
- Your staff should know where supplies are located, how to pack vaccine for transport, and where to transport vaccine.
- All staff whose work relates to immunizations should be prepared to manage vaccine during an emergency.
- Check your equipment
- Be sure your back-up continuous temperature monitoring device is functional (e.g., new batteries).
- If you have a back-up generator, it should be tested quarterly and receive annual maintenance.
- Practice your Emergency Vaccine Management Plan.
- Regularly practice your plan to identify unforeseen problems.
Most importantly, stay safe. Don’t put yourself at risk to protect vaccine.
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