Pfizer Distribution Made Easier... FDA Extends Refrigeration Period from 5 Days to 1 Month

[Image source=Reuters Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Cho Hyun-ui] The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) extended the refrigerated storage period for Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine from 5 days to one month on the 19th (local time). With easier storage, it is expected that supply will become smoother.

In a statement on the day, the FDA announced, "We have authorized Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine to be stored at 2°C to 8°C for up to one month."

The Pfizer vaccine is transported using special containers that can maintain temperatures between -90°C and -60°C. Afterwards, it is refrigerated at 2°C to 8°C in local hospitals and other facilities, but only ultra-low temperature distribution was allowed, which was criticized for limiting supply.

The FDA explained, "By allowing vaccination sites such as local hospitals to store and administer the vaccine more easily, the vaccine can be used more widely."

The European Medicines Agency (EMA) also extended the refrigerated storage period for the Pfizer vaccine to one month on the 17th.

The Moderna vaccine can be stored for one month at refrigerated temperatures and seven months at standard frozen temperatures. The Janssen vaccine can be stored for two years at -25°C to -15°C and for three months at 2°C to 8°C.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.