Regarding cold chain equipment in India's Universal Immunization Programme, the correct temperature range for storing vaccines in an Ice-Lined Refrigerator (ILR) at the PHC level is:
- A −15°C to −25°C
- B +2°C to +8°C ✓
- C 0°C to +4°C
- D +8°C to +12°C
Correct answer: B. +2°C to +8°C
Explanation
Ice-Lined Refrigerators (ILRs) at PHC/CHC level maintain temperatures between +2°C and +8°C for storing most vaccines (OPV, DPT, Hep-B, TT, BCG, MR). Only OPV may also be stored at −15°C to −25°C at higher cold chain points (district/state level). Freezing temperatures (below 0°C) are harmful to DPT, Hep-B, TT, and IPV (freeze-sensitive vaccines). The ILR provides buffer capacity during power cuts due to its ice lining.
Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.
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Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.