Background
SAEFVIC (Surveillance of Adverse Events Following Vaccination In the Community) is the central reporting service in Victoria for any significant adverse event following immunisation (AEFI).
An 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. A vaccine error is also considered an AEFI and may be related to the way a vaccine was stored, prepared or administered.
Common side effects from vaccines are usually mild and short‑lasting. Severe side effects are rare. A list of common vaccine side effects can be found in The Australian Immunisation Handbook: Table: Common side effects following immunisation for vaccines used in the National Immunisation Program schedule.
Purpose
Monitoring vaccine safety during development and through post‑licensure adverse event surveillance are important ways both to ensure safe vaccination programs and to maintain community confidence in vaccines.
Post-licensure monitoring is conducted via a number of different mechanisms, one of which is through reporting AEFI to jurisdictional and national authorities. Reporting AEFI allows the rapid investigation of any potential vaccine or system problem and ensures vaccinees get timely medical advice and support.
Reporting adverse events is not mandatory in Victoria, however doing so allows the rapid investigation of any potential vaccine or system problems by Victorian and national health authorities (Therapeutic Goods Administration).
Following the report of adverse events, SAEFVIC can facilitate individualised clinical assistance for patients and families affected by an AEFI. This may be done via a face-to-face or telehealth consultation with a specialist or with an immunisation nurse over the phone.
Reporting to SAEFVIC
Any vaccinated individual, parent/guardian, immunisation provider or treating medical practitioner can report an AEFI to SAEFVIC. Reports are made via SAEFVAC.
It is important to note that the SAEFVIC does not provide emergency care and is a reporting service only.
If you require medical assistance please see your GP, local emergency department or dial 000 if immediate support is required.
Authors: Nigel Crawford (Director, SAEFVIC, Murdoch Children’s Research Institute), Georgina Lewis (Clinical Manager, SAEFVIC, Murdoch Children’s Research Institute) and Rachael McGuire (Research Nurse, SAEFVIC, 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.
You should not consider the information on this site to be specific, professional medical advice for your personal health or for your family’s personal health. For medical concerns, including decisions about vaccinations, medications and other treatments, you should always consult a healthcare professional.