A scoping review of active, participant centred, digital adverse events following immunization (AEFI) surveillance of WHO approved COVID-19 vaccines: A Canadian immunization Research Network study

Hum Vaccin Immunother. 2024 Dec 31;20(1):2293550. doi: 10.1080/21645515.2023.2293550. Epub 2024 Feb 19.

Abstract

This scoping review examines the role of digital solutions in active, participant-centered surveillance of adverse events following initial release of COVID-19 vaccines. The goals of this paper were to examine the existing literature surrounding digital solutions and technology used for active, participant centered, AEFI surveillance of novel COVID-19 vaccines approved by WHO. This paper also aimed to identify gaps in literature surrounding digital, active, participant centered AEFI surveillance systems and to identify and describe the core components of active, participant centered, digital surveillance systems being used for post-market AEFI surveillance of WHO approved COVID-19 vaccines, with a focus on the digital solutions and technology being used, the type of AEFI detected, and the populations under surveillance. The findings highlight the need for customized surveillance systems based on local contexts and the lessons learned to improve future vaccine monitoring and pandemic preparedness.

Keywords: Adverse events following immunization (AEFI); COVID-19 vaccine; active surveillance; participant reporting; pharmacovigilance; post-marketing surveillance; vaccine safety surveillance.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adverse Drug Reaction Reporting Systems
  • COVID-19 Vaccines* / adverse effects
  • COVID-19* / prevention & control
  • Canada / epidemiology
  • Humans
  • Immunization / adverse effects
  • Vaccination / adverse effects
  • World Health Organization

Substances

  • COVID-19 Vaccines