Technology
Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine can now be stored at fridge temperature for longer
The European Union (EU) drugs regulator has stated that it is possible to store Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine at fridge temperature for much longer than it was previously recommended.
According to details, the European Medicines Agency (EMA) said that once the jabs thawed, unopened vials could be stored in the fridge for up to 30 days. Presently, the Pfizer jab can only be stored for five days.
Now that EU drug regulator has said that the vaccine can be stored for a longer period, the vaccine roll out across Europe will be impacted significantly.
The need for transport and storage at very low temperatures has been one of the major drawbacks of the Pfizer vaccine.
The previous storage capacity and requirement of Pfizer vaccines made them harder to use in some parts of the world.
Earlier in February, the United States (US) approved storage and transport of the Pfizer vaccine at standard freezer temperatures of -15 to -25C for up to two weeks, as opposed to between -80 to -60C which is usually the requirement.
Earlier this month, Canada became the first country to authorize the use of Pfizer vaccine for children aged 12-15.