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 defined by the Australian Immunisation Handbook as “any untoward medical occurrence that follows immunisation. It does not necessarily have a causal relationship with the vaccine”. A vaccine error is also considered an AEFI and may be related to the way a vaccine was stored, prepared or administered.

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). This helps to ensure a safe and effective immunisation program and it maintains community confidence in vaccines.

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.

Please see your GP, local emergency department or call 000 if immediate assistance 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: October 20, 2022

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 in 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.