From program suspension to the pandemic: A qualitative examination of Australia's vaccine pharmacovigilance system over 10 years

In 2010, the Australian seasonal influenza vaccination program for children under 5 years of age was suspended due to an unexpected increase in fever and febrile convulsions causally associated with one particular influenza vaccine brand. A subsequent national review made seven recommendations to improve vaccine pharmacovigilance.

Citation:
Phillips A, Carlson S, Danchin M, Beard F, Macartney K. From program suspension to the pandemic: A qualitative examination of Australia's vaccine pharmacovigilance system over 10 years. Vaccine. 2021.

Keywords:
Active surveillance; COVID-19 vaccines; Pharmacovigilance; Qualitative research; Vaccine safety

Abstract:
In 2010, the Australian seasonal influenza vaccination program for children under 5 years of age was suspended due to an unexpected increase in fever and febrile convulsions causally associated with one particular influenza vaccine brand. A subsequent national review made seven recommendations to improve vaccine pharmacovigilance.