Extensive research has been conducted on vaccines over the years. While some vaccines are still in the research and development phase, others are undergoing trials or are in the final stages of approval. A crucial challenge in vaccine distribution is ensuring proper transportation and preservation.
Even when vaccines are developed using the same technology, their storage temperature requirements vary due to different formulations. Some require storage at -60 to -90℃, others at -20℃, and some between 2 – 8℃. While vaccine preservation is possible in India, the current infrastructure has limitations.
India requires 29,000 cold chain points, 240 walk-in coolers, 70 walk-in freezers, 45,000 ice-lined refrigerators, 41,000 deep freezers, and 300 solar refrigerators to effectively store vaccines. Temperature fluctuations can render vaccines ineffective, leaving individuals unprotected.