Publication:

Study of the pattern of adverse events following immunization of children in a tertiary care hospital

Background Success of an immunization programme depends upon awareness regarding usefulness and safety of vaccines. Widespread information on vaccine safety is very essential. Objective of study was to analyze pattern of Adverse Events Following Immunization (AEFI) in children.

Methods Prospective, observational study was carried out at immunization OPD of B. J. Government Medical College and Sassoon General hospital, Pune, where children receiving routine immunization were analyzed & followed up through telephonic survey of parents. Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) form was used to record AEFI.

Results Total 1206 children, aged 0-6 years, received total of 3179 vaccine doses. 22.71% AEFI were reported. Most common AEFI per 1000 doses of all vaccinations was Fever, seen in less than 9 months of age group (84.67%). DPT vaccine was most common vaccine associated with AEFI and maximum (37.8%) adverse events were seen with 1st dose of DPT.

Conclusions Reporting of AEFI with regular analysis and feedback should be an integral part of immunization programs.