Replacement COVID-19 vaccination encouraged following detection of isolated storage issue in Queenstown Lakes area

The SDHB is actively contacting individuals affected by a Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine storage issue impacting a subset of the vaccinations delivered by an occupational health provider in the Queenstown Lakes area.

Initial investigations have identified that just over 1500 people have received an affected vaccination that was stored at incorrect temperature. The people affected received their vaccinations at various locations in Queenstown Lakes and Central Otago between 1 December 2021 and 28 January 2022. This group of people are encouraged to receive a replacement vaccination to ensure that they benefit from a high level of immunity against COVID-19.

“There is no risk of harm to individuals that have received a vaccine stored at an incorrect temperature. However, in these circumstances the vaccine is not considered to be potent nor to produce a reliable level of immunity,” says SDHB Medical Officer of Health Dr Susan Jack.

We would like to reassure people in the area that this was an isolated incident, and the affected provider has ceased vaccination pending the outcome of a full investigation.

Temperature-related vaccine storage issues can happen at any stage in the journey of the vaccine from its origin through to the administration of the vaccine to individuals. These are commonly referred to as cold chain failures. There are robust requirements in place to ensure that vaccine is stored correctly and that issues are identified quickly, and any impact is minimised. The affected provider is working closely with us on a detailed investigation and has ceased vaccination pending the outcome

“The SDHB recognises the inconvenience and anxiety it may cause for the affected individuals. We sincerely apologise to those people who have been impacted by this incident, and also to their whānau,” says SDHB Chief Executive Officer, Chris Fleming.

All people impacted by the incident will be contacted by phone, or email and letter within the next three working days. Detailed information will be provided regarding each individual’s circumstances and the recommended course of action, there are also FAQs on the Southern Health website.  These people are able to access a fully funded GP consultation if they have any concerns and require further advice on a replacement vaccination. People can also talk to their trusted health professional such as their pharmacist or can call 0800 28 29 26 (7 days a week, 8am to 8pm).

People affected by this incident who wish to book their replacement vaccination should call 0800 28 29 26 (7 days a week, 8am to 8pm) for more information.

FAQs and advice for people affected are also available on the Southern Health website.

ENDS

Note to Media:
There will be an online Zoom Q & A for media with Chris Fleming, Southern DHB CEO and Susan Jack, SDHB Medical Officer of Health at 3pm today.

Visit this website to register.

Media enquiries:
SDHB Communications Team
communications@southerndhb.govt.nz