Adverse Events Following Immunization

Although every vaccine passes through purity and sterility tests, some reaction either inherent to the vaccine or as a sequel to its administration may occur rarely. These events can broadly be classified as local reaction and systemic reaction and are jointly called ‘Adverse Events Following Immunization’ (AEFI).

Inherent reaction are purely temporary and pass off without any permanent sequelae. However adverse events need specific interventions especially so when they are life threatening.

Although the adverse events are rare, every doctor who is dealing with an immunization procedure, should be prepared to manage these rare events when they occur. Hence it is mandatory for every immunization clinic to have an emergency set up ready to tackle such post immunization events.

It is only with this intention a brief account is given in this section delineating the common reactions with a note on their management guidelines.

Summary: Adverse Effects Following Immunization (AEFI)

• Local reactions
• Systemic reactions
• Management Guidelines
• Reporting to Local Health Authorities