Detection and investigation of serious adverse events following yellow fever vaccination
Guidance from an informal consultation of experts, 18–19 November 2008, Geneva, Switzerland
Overview
Yellow fever vaccine has been in use for more than 70 years and, as is the case for most vaccines, has been associated with occasional mild side-effects. Recently, the description of clinical syndromes related to yellow fever vaccination of previously non-immunized travellers has led to the recognition of rare but serious adverse events following immunization (AEFI).
The World Health Organization convened a meeting of experts to initiate discussion, with the aim of developing guidance to countries embarking on active surveillance of yellow fever AEFI. The Meeting was held on 18–19 November 2008, in Geneva, Switzerland, at WHO headquarters.
The present report reflects the guidance provided through collaborative work between WHO and recognized experts during and after the informal consultation. Further work will be required to formalize operational guidance for surveillance of serious adverse events after field experience has served to validate some of the proposals presented herein.