Background
AusVaxSafety is a national active surveillance system monitoring adverse events following National Immunisation Program (NIP) vaccines, as well as targeted vaccine programs such as mpox and COVID‑19. It was established in 2014 by the National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance (NCIRS) with funding from the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care.
An adverse event following immunisation (AEFI) is any untoward medical occurrence that happens following the administration of a vaccine. It can be coincidentally associated with immunisation, without necessarily being caused by the vaccine. Common side effects from vaccines are usually mild and short‑lasting. Severe side effects are rare.
Purpose
Monitoring vaccine safety during development and post‑licensure adverse event surveillance are important ways both to ensure safe vaccination programs and to maintain community confidence in vaccines.
AusVaxSafety monitors de-identified data using software programs such as SmartVax and Vaxtracker gather information directly from vaccinees and carers via SMS/email to rapidly detect possible vaccine safety signals.
Author: Annette Alafaci (SAEFVIC Research Assistant, Murdoch Children’s Research Institute)
Reviewed by: Rachael McGuire (MVEC Education Nurse Coordinator)
Date: December 2024
Materials in this section are updated as new information and vaccines become available. The Melbourne Vaccine Education Centre (MVEC) staff regularly reviews materials for accuracy.
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