2.1 Programmatic Implications of COVID-19 Vaccines

Stability Data of Candidate Vaccines 

• Stability data of candidate vaccines are not yet available.
• There are many unknowns regarding Vaccine Vial Monitor (VVM) type, qualification to multi-dose vial policy (shelf life ‒ some vaccines may only show date of manufacture; and light sensitivity).
• Expiration information is likely to be available in the product information leaflet.

WHO Prequalification Status of Vaccines

• Currently no COVID-19 vaccine is prequalified by WHO.
• Some vaccines may be prequalified at the time of deployment.
• Most vaccines will be used under WHO Emergency Use Listing procedures:
• The WHO Emergency Use Listing procedures are developed to expedite the availability and use of unlicensed medical products needed in public health emergency situations.

Vaccine Vial Monitors (VVM)

• Vaccines may or may not have VVM on the label or cap.
• The location of the VVM on the vial (e.g., label or cap) will depend on stability data and the suitability of multi-dose vial policy.
• If the VVM is available, follow the VVM guidelines to decide which vaccine to use or discard.