Vaccine Accuracy, Simplified

More Americans rolled up their sleeves with the arrival of flu vaccines at pharmacies last month, but more arms = more needles = more chances for mix-ups. Combined with ongoing COVID-19 vaccine and COVID-19 vaccine booster requests, it’s become the source for more concern.  

 

According to the Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP), 16 accidental mix-ups have been reported so far. Most of the mix-ups occurred in patients who consented to a flu vaccine but received one of the COVID-19 vaccines instead. In three cases, patients received the flu vaccine instead of the intended COVID-19 vaccine. Possible causes include: 

 

• Increased demand and coadministration of vaccines; 

• Syringes near each other; 

• Unlabeled syringes; 

• Distractions; and 

• Staffing shortages. 

 

Among its recommendations, ISMP suggests labeling vaccine syringes. Easily distinguish COVID-19 vaccine doses from flu vaccine vials with pre-printed Flag Labels that provide at-a-glance identification of syringes containing Janssen, Moderna and Pfizer vaccines. Clear sections wrap around containers and allow personnel to easily identify the intended doses. Additionally, flu-specific vaccine labels are available by contacting our Resource Group.  

 

Vaccine confidence is critical in the return to a pre-pandemic normal. Mitigate risk with clearly labeled vaccine containers and supplies. Pre-printed labels are in stock and ready for same-day shipment!