MMR Vaccine Storage and Handling

Proper vaccine storage and handling practices play an important role in protecting individuals and communities from vaccine-preventable diseases. For general recommendations and guidance, see Vaccine Storage and Handling.

Three vaccines containing measles, mumps, and rubella virus are licensed for use in the United States.

• M-M-R II® is a combination measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine.
• PRIORIX® is a combination measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine.
• ProQuad® is a combination measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella (MMRV) vaccine.

All three vaccines must be protected from light, which might inactivate the vaccine viruses, the vaccines have different storage requirements. Administration of improperly stored vaccine might fail to provide protection against disease. The diluent can be stored in the refrigerator or at room temperature but should not be allowed to freeze. Consult package inserts for vaccine storage and handling guidance.

Vaccine Storage and Handling Toolkit

The Vaccine Storage and Handling Toolkit is a comprehensive resource for providers on vaccine storage and handling recommendations and best practice strategies. It includes considerations for equipment for storage units and temperature monitoring devices, strategies for maintaining the cold chain, routine storage and handling practices, inventory management and emergency procedures for protecting vaccine inventories.