How often are VFC guidelines updated or changed?
We update it every year. While some changes come from CDC, other changes come locally from the State of Maryland or directly from the VFC program.
Would you recommend using a backup DDL when doing emergency transport or using the one already set up for the vaccine storage unit?
NO. We recommend using the existing DDL in your storage unit that is already conditioned and put that with the vaccine that you are planning to transport.
What does a dormitory-style refrigerator look like?
A dormitory-style refrigerator is a small combination refrigerator/freezer unit that is outfitted with one exterior door and an evaporator plate (cooling coil), which is usually located inside an icemaker compartment (freezer) within the refrigerator.
These units have exhibited severe temperature control and stability issues throughout the entire storage area.
The use of this type of unit is prohibited for storage of VFC vaccines.
Is it OK for both freezer and refrigerator DDLs to have different readings in celsius and fahrenheit?
It is advisable to set them to one type of reading to avoid confusion.
Are co-gel packs OK to use in place of water bottles?
YES. It’s fine to use the blue ice packs but make sure they are defrosted before using.
Are we no longer advised to use bubble wraps and cardboard or are we only supposed to use just bubble wraps?
CDC is only advising the use of bubble wraps for emergency transport at this time. It’s fine for providers to use a qualified pack out only in the event you don’t have a present one and you had to make one for emergency transport.
What if we don’t have bubble wraps when transporting vaccines to a different office?
If you have a qualified pack out that is purpose built for the transport of vaccines, you don’t need a bubble wrap. But in the event you had to make your own pack out to move vaccines, we want you to have the bubble wrap.
Do we need a hard sided case to transport vaccines?
NO. It’s fine if you have a qualified pack out that is purpose built for the transport of vaccines.
How do we get a pack out?
You can either make one or purchase one. To purchase, Google “VFC qualified pack out” or “CDC qualified vaccine transport”
How can I get a new magnet?
MDH would provide one when requested.
Where can I find my VFC PIN?
Login to ImmuNet, click on ‘Inventory and Ordering’ and ‘Create and View Orders’, your VFC PIN should be displayed under the ‘Provider PIN’ found in the middle section of the page.
How quickly do records go from EHR to Immunet?
It depends on your EHR’s data transport method. Web services are immediate. If it’s a SFTP or batch file method, it will be sent the next day. Please refer to the ImmuNet Reporting Page for more information.
Are pharmacies mandated to report all administered vaccines to ImmuNet?
Yes, as of October 2019, all organizations administering vaccines in Maryland are required to report the vaccination data to ImmuNet. Please refer to the ImmuNet Reporting Page for more information.
How do I adjust an order in ImmuNet?
Contact VFC to update the order for you.
How do I add LOT numbers that are not showing in the inventory?
It is automatically uploaded. If that isn’t the case, you can enter them yourself by going to the inventory module, click on “add inventory”, and complete the fields.
Why do some vaccinations in a patient report display as ‘Not Valid’?
To get the explanation of status for vaccinations showing as ‘Not Valid’, go to the patient/student ‘History/Recommend’ screen and click on the date link. This will display the reason why the vaccine is not valid. Refer to ImmuNet Training Videos for more information.
