Tuesday, April 1, 2025

Important April Updates and General Reminders

This memo shares important April 2025 updates and general reminders from the North Carolina Immunization Program (NCIP).
North Carolina Immunization Program
Apr 1, 2025

April Provider Webinar Reminder

The NCDHHS Monthly Provider webinar will be held April 2, 2025, from 12:30-1 p.m. EST.

Join the Monthly Provider Webinar (Zoom)

Meeting ID: 160 781 7660
Passcode: 213847

End of Nirsevimab Administration and Proper Storage

Nirsevimab (Beyfortus®) administration and ordering ended March 31, 2025, for the 2024-2025 RSV season, in accordance with the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommendations. As the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) season comes to an end, note the following key points: 

  • Any remaining non-expired doses of nirsevimab should be stored appropriately and marked “DO NOT USE” until next RSV season.
  • Nirsevimab should be stored refrigerated between 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C).  They should be stored in the original carton to protect from light until time of use. Do not freeze or expose to heat.

Storage and Handling of Nirsevimab

Novavax COVID-19 Vaccine Update

The shelf life for Novavax vaccines is shorter this year. To ensure the efficient use of these vaccines, keep the following in mind: 

  • The CDC is currently distributing Novavax COVID-19 vaccine with an April 30, 2025, expiration date. This vaccine will not be granted a shelf-life extension.   
  • The current lot will continue to be available for orders through April 10, 2025.
  • These April expiry doses are the final Novavax COVID-19 vaccine doses available for the 2024–2025 season.

Vaccine Planning: Reminders Related to McKesson Shipments 

New temperature monitors (TagAlert) are now being used in refrigerated shipments from McKesson. Upon opening the box, providers should immediately press the blue Stop and Start Button until the Stop Icon appears and then read the indicator status to determine if the appropriate temperature was maintained during transit. Each shipment includes a flyer with directions (PDF) and pictures to assist staff responsible for receiving the vaccines. Please ensure your staff are aware of the need to turn off the TagAlert as soon as the shipment is opened.

In addition, keep in mind the following: 

  • The EcoFlex coolers must be returned so that they can be reused. These coolers have an attached UPS shipping label on the inner box flap.
  • The KoolTemp coolers do not need to be returned to McKesson and can be discarded.

Refrigerated and frozen tag alerts do not need to be returned to McKesson and can be discarded.

EcoFlex Cooler - Please Return (label on inner flap of box)KoolTemp Cooler - Please Discard

How to contact us:

For assistance, contact the NCIP Help Desk by phone at 1-877-USE-NCIR (1-877-873-6247) or by email: ncirhelp@dhhs.nc.gov.

Thank you for your ongoing partnership and dedication to improving immunization outcomes in North Carolina. 

In Health, 
NC Department of Health and Human Services 

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