Every Person Counts
On Tuesday, May 4, providers were emailed guidance from the CDC stating we are at the point where providers can vaccinate any eligible person coming into a clinical setting who wants to be vaccinated, even if that means opening a vial of vaccine just for that single person. Please do not turn anyone away.
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COVID-19 Vaccine Pediatric Provider Enrollment
In anticipation of the expansion of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine’s Emergency Use Authorization to include adolescents ages 12 years and older, the DSHS Immunization Unit is encouraging all pediatric providers to enroll in the COVID-19 Vaccine Program at EnrollTexasIZ.dshs.texas.gov. If you are already approved/enrolled as a COVID-19 vaccine provider, there is no need to enroll again.
COVID-19 Vaccine Storage Guidance
If you are receiving a delivery of COVID-19 vaccine shipment either directly from the CDC or the State, you must accept the delivery and store the vaccine under optimal temperature conditions to maximize their viability as listed below.
- Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine: Ultra-low temperature freezer, if available (-112 to -76 degrees F)
- Moderna COVID-19 vaccine: Standard Freezer temperatures (-58 to 5 degrees F)
- Janssen COVID-19 vaccine: Refrigerated temperatures (36 to 46 degrees F)
At this time, DSHS is not able to pick-up unwanted vaccines. Please continue to administer the vaccine in your possession. DSHS is aware that you may not be able to use all the doses within the week due to a decrease in vaccine uptake.
If you have waste, report it into VAOS and dispose of the vaccine(s) appropriately.
If you have questions, email COVID19VacMgmt@dshs.texas.gov.
For more information on the topics listed above, please search your inbox for emails sent from txhhs@public.govdelivery.com.
Expert Tip: CDC Quick Reference Guide
Stay up to date on all vaccine presentation Storage & Handling requirements! For more information, check out the COVID-19 Vaccine: Quick Reference Guide for Healthcare Professionals (cdc.gov).
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