Guidance for Planning Vaccination Clinics | CDC

Guidance for Planning Vaccination Clinics | CDC

Guidance for Planning Vaccination Clinics Held at Satellite, Temporary, or Off-Site Locations

The purpose of this guidance is to assist with jurisdictional planning and implementation of satellite, temporary, or off-site vaccination clinics by public and private vaccination organizations. Other users may include public health preparedness professionals. The guidance primarily focuses on clinical considerations for planning a vaccination clinic, including vaccine storage, handling, administration, and documentation. However, large-scale clinics, such as those held in arenas or stadiums, those held over multiple days or those conducted during emergency scenarios, will likely require added logistical and technical considerations. Consult your state or local public health preparedness office for additional support.

The guidance applies to clinics that are open to the general public and clinics that are for targeted populations only (i.e., critical workforce personnel and/or higher-risk priority groups). These clinics may be provisionally located at walk-through sites (churches, community centers, outdoor tents) or other settings such as mobile, curbside, or drive-through sites. Guidance is applicable whether routine vaccination is provided (i.e., back-to-school or annual flu clinics) or emergency vaccination is provided in a preparedness scenario (i.e., pandemic influenza or COVID-19 vaccination when vaccine is available).

Guidance during the COVID-19 pandemic

Planning for a satellite, temporary, or off-site vaccination clinic requires additional considerations during the COVID-19 pandemic, including physical distancing, personal protective equipment (PPE), and enhanced sanitation efforts. These additional considerations are called out in boxes throughout this guidance. However, because COVID-19 guidance is evolving, regularly check infection control guidance for healthcare professionals about coronavirus (COVID-19) for updated information. Consider signing up for the email updates on the website to stay informed of any changes.

ballot check light icon

Planning Activities

hospital alt solid icon

Pre-Clinic Activities

vial solid icon

During the Clinic Activities

device icon

Post-Clinic Activities

Planners are encouraged to use

• Resources for hosting an off-site vaccination clinic
• The Checklist of Best Practices for Vaccination Clinics Held at Satellite, Temporary, or Off-Site Locations, pdf iconexternal iconwhich outlines CDC guidelines and best practices essential for patient safety and vaccine effectiveness, including guidance for vaccine shipment, transport, storage, handling, preparation, administration, and documentation at temporary clinics.