LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Louisville-based UPS announced it is helping with the anticipated COVID-19 vaccine distribution efforts.
UPS Healthcare can make up to 1,200 lbs. of dry ice an hour in its U.S. facilities to help with storage and transportation of products requiring cold storage. The additional production also allows UPS to supply dry ice to hospitals in the United States and Canada, as well as clinics, and other care centers needing dry ice to store vaccines. UPS said in a statement the dry ice will be sourced at UPS Worldport in Louisville and would be available the next day.
With pharmaceutical companies working on getting millions of vaccine doses distributed around the globe safely, there is a fear of a spike in demand could lead to a dry ice shortage.
“Enhancing our dry ice production capabilities increases our supply chain agility and reliability immensely when it comes to handling complex vaccines for our customers,” says Wes Wheeler, president of UPS Healthcare. “Healthcare facilities in Louisville, Dallas, and Ontario will ensure we have the capability to produce dry ice to sufficiently pack and replenish shipments as needed to keep products viable and effective.”
Dry ice isn't UPS' only method of assistance. The company is working with Stirling Ultracold to provide portable, ultra-low temperature (ULT) freezers. The portable freezers will be able to protect vaccines requiring ultra-low temperatures ranging from -20°C to -80°C.
In the statement, Dusty Tenney, CEO of Stirling said, "We are truly proud to partner with UPS in this critical effort. As the leading manufacturer of small and portable ULT devices, Stirling Ultracold freezers integrate well with UPS Healthcare logistics to provide complete cold-chain of custody for COVID-19 vaccines from the drug manufacturers to medical facilities.” He added, “This program will help ensure vaccines remain effective next year, and for years to come, as future vaccines and biologics are developed to keep the world healthy and safe.