Multi-Dose Vaccine Vials Rule Clarification

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) has provided clarification for rural health clinics that there is no rule requiring multi-dose vaccine vials to be discarded 30 days after opening.

The department recommends following the manufacturer’s instructions on expiration dates. Some RHC polices have a 30-day rule on multi-dose vials, but they may want to exclude vaccines.

Some clinics are not carrying vaccines because they believe multi-dose vials must be discarded within 30 days, but this is not the case. RHCs should follow the manufacturer’s instructions. DHSS hopes this clarification will encourage more clinics to carry vaccines and make them available to children in their communities.