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The Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS)
R T Chen1, S C Rastogi, J R Mullen
1National Immunization Program, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30333.
Vaccine
|May 1, 1994
Summary
Public trust in immunizations may decline due to vaccine adverse events, even as coverage rises. Post-marketing surveillance systems like VAERS are crucial for monitoring vaccine safety and maintaining public confidence.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Immunology
- Pharmacovigilance
Background:
- Vaccine-preventable diseases require ongoing immunizations unless eradicated.
- Increasing vaccine coverage and decreasing disease incidence can paradoxically increase concerns about vaccine adverse events.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the role of post-marketing surveillance in monitoring vaccine safety.
- To assess the importance of surveillance systems in maintaining public confidence in immunizations.
Main Methods:
- Utilized data from the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) in the USA.
- Leveraged mandatory reporting requirements established by the National Childhood Injury Act of 1986.
Main Results:
- Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) identified both causally and coincidentally related vaccine adverse events.
- Acknowledged methodological limitations inherent in post-marketing surveillance systems.
Conclusions:
- Despite limitations, VAERS plays a vital role in monitoring vaccine safety.
- Effective surveillance is essential for sustaining public trust in immunization programs.