Mastering logistical challenges for vaccine distribution in Norway’s ‘Viking season’

Discover the gripping story of how World Courier, in collaboration with Norway's public health institute, overcame extreme geographical and weather challenges to distribute COVID-19 vaccines during its harshest 'Viking season'.

This case study explores the meticulous planning, innovative problem-solving, and sheer determination that ensured life-saving vaccines reached every corner of this rugged Nordic country. Learn about the end-to-end solutions that maintained an unbroken cold chain despite freezing temperatures and stormy conditions. This is a testament to robust logistics for every eventuality.

Access the case study here

Vaccine logistics FAQs

Q: What are the main challenges in vaccine logistics?

A: The main challenges of vaccine logistics include maintaining a cold chain in varying geographical and climatic conditions, ensuring timely delivery to remote locations, managing the short shelf life of some vaccines after thawing, and planning for unexpected events.

Q: How does geography impact the vaccine supply chain?

A: Geography greatly impacts the vaccine supply chain. In areas with rugged terrain or isolated locations — like islands or mountainous regions — transporting vaccines can be exceptionally difficult. Extreme weather conditions can further complicate these logistical hurdles

Q: What are the temperature requirements of vaccines?

A: The temperature requirements for vaccines can vary depending on the specific vaccine. However, most vaccines need to be stored within a temperature range of +2°C to +8°C during transport and storage to maintain their effectiveness. Some vaccines, particularly newer mRNA-based ones, may require colder temperatures for stability — sometimes as low as -70°C. It is essential that these temperature requirements are strictly adhered to in order to maintain the integrity and efficacy of the vaccines. Any deviations from these set temperature ranges could potentially compromise the quality and potency of the vaccines.