A cold chain technician records the ILR temperature at a PHC twice daily. The morning reading is +3°C and the evening reading is +7°C. As per UIP cold chain guidelines, what is the correct interpretation of these readings?
- A The ILR is functioning normally; readings are within the acceptable range ✓
- B The ILR is too cold; vaccines may have frozen
- C The ILR is too warm; vaccines may have lost potency
- D The thermometer is faulty and must be replaced
Correct answer: A. The ILR is functioning normally; readings are within the acceptable range
Explanation
The acceptable temperature range for vaccine storage in an ILR is +2 to +8°C. Both readings fall within this range, so the ILR is functioning normally. A reading below +2°C risks freezing (especially dangerous for DPT, TT, and Hep-B), while above +8°C risks heat damage to live vaccines like OPV and measles.
Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.