Yellowstone Times

Montana State University (MSU) received permission from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to be a COVID-19 vaccine distributor, according to a university press release.

The vaccines will be for its students. Additionally, the university is planning to provide storage and distribution of the vaccine.

“We are planning as far ahead as we can, as it will be a complicated process to store and administer the vaccine,” said Jim Mitchell, associate vice president for student wellness at MSU, in a press release. 

In order for the university to obtain approval as a vaccine distributer, MSU had to have access to the subzero freezers required to store the Pfizer vaccine. The university also had to show that it has repetitive electrical power for the freezers to ensure its constant operation. The Pfizer vaccine must be saved at temperatures of minus 90 degrees Fahrenheit or below; the Moderna vaccine has to be stored below minus 4 degrees. The university showed that it meets all the requirements.

“We’re doing the backup electrical systems this week. The setup and operation of the freezers will be done well in advance of the arrival of the vaccines," Mitchell said.