Ultracold vaccine transportation solution launched in South Africa

A new solution aimed at ensuring the efficient transport and storage of ultracold biologics, has been launched in South Africa.

Helium and natural gas company Renergen recently announced the completion and successful operation of its first Cryo-Vacc prototype. The unit is powered by helium and enables the safe transportation of vaccines at extremely low temperatures for periods of up to 25 days, without the need for an external power supply. The Cryo-Vacc has a temperature range of -150 ^oC to 8 ^oC, making it suitable for a range of vaccines.

Combined with best-in-class cold chain monitoring and asset tracking technology from Beyond Wireless (Beyond), a World Health Organisation performance, quality and safety certified remote temperature monitoring solution provider, the Cryo-Vacc is designed to provide accurate temperature readings of vaccines while in transit, as well as GPS tracking to ensure that the custody chain can be audited.

The box is constructed of aluminium, is stackable and lightweight, weighing 20 kg, and is designed to be easy to transport.  The lightweight property of helium helps to significantly reduce airfreight costs. The company explains that using helium allows Cryo-Vacc to accommodate up to 12 times more vials per flight compared to other cryogens based on current flight safety regulations.

Renergen is partnering with local express courier partner, DPD Laser, to facilitate vaccine distribution in South Africa.