Vaccine product characteristics, procurement, training and vaccine management

Over time, an increasing number of vaccine formulations and presentations have become available: different combinations of antigens; different formulations of vaccines (lyophilized, liquid or a combination of both); different methods of vaccine administration; and different vaccine presentations (single or multi-dose vials, pre-filled syringes, mono-dose injection devices), with different packaging. As new vaccines are developed, choices will need to be made on the optimal formulations and presentations for use in the respective national programmes.

Through the development of guidelines and manuals on vaccine characteristics and implementation issues, WHO, UNICEF and their partners assist countries with decisions related to vaccine availability and supply. In addition, WHO and partners have developed tools to provide information about the characteristics of vaccines.

When introducing a new vaccine, countries are faced with many programmatic and vaccine management issues, including: the capacity of the cold chain to accommodate additional volumes; ability of managers to assess vaccine needs accurately, plan for timely replenishment of vaccine stocks, and carefully monitor vaccine wastage; and the revision of records and reporting tools to accommodate the new antigens.

WHO headquarters, regional and country counterparts are involved in activities to ensure the quality and safety of new vaccines. These activities include strengthening vaccine procurement systems, developing new regulatory pathways, and streamlining the vaccine prequalification process.

WHO and partners provide technical expertise to countries to assure that adequate quantities of high quality and affordable vaccines are purchased by countries to meet national immunization needs and to increase capacity building within countries to improve vaccine provision through strategies directed towards sustainable financing and procurement.

Last updated: November 2009