Every year nurses are hired to provide influenza and other vaccines at community sites. The Department of Health (MDH) provides guidance regarding the storing and handling of vaccines, transporting of vaccines, documentation of immunizations and immunizations administered to children. The pharmacy board also has requirements about the distribution of vaccines including delivery of vaccines to nurse's homes. The Board encourages nurses to call:

• The MDH Immunization Program at 1-800-657-3970 or 651-201-5503 if you have questions about vaccines;
• The Board of Pharmacy at (651)-201-2825 regarding the distribution of vaccines; and
• The Board of Nursing at (612)-317-3000 with nursing practice concerns.

MDH has provided links to their Vaccine Storage Guide and Guidance on Packing and Transporting Vaccines at:

http://www.health.state.mn.us/divs/idepc/immunize/hcp/vaxhandling.html.

http://www.health.state.mn.us/divs/idepc/immunize/hcp/provguide/mangvax.pdf