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We are very sorry to know that you or a member of
your family has experienced an adverse reaction to a vaccine. While dealing with
the reaction is difficult, it is important to take a few minutes and report the
reaction to the Food and Drug Administration.
Since 1982, NVIC has kept a reaction registry based on reports from parents. If
you would like to tell us about the reaction you experienced or your loved one
experienced, please click here and submit your
information.
The Vaccine
Adverse Events Reporting System (VAERS) was developed as a centralized
reporting system in 1991. It is important to report to VAERS because:
- VAERS was set up to identify unusual events
that may indicate a "hot lot" or contaminated lot of vaccine that
could trigger a recall;
- Trends may be identified based on the type of
reaction, permanent injuries and death reports;
- If the FDA does their job, your report could
prevent another child from reacting.
VAERS receives between 12-14,000 reports per
year. The National Vaccine Information Center has been a critical watchdog
on the system to encourage better follow-up and use of the data. You will need
to know the name of the manufacturer and lot number of the vaccine if you wish
to report it. This information is available from your doctor.
Your doctor should report the reaction but if he
refuses to do so, you may report it yourself.
If you feel the reaction may have led to
permanent disability, you should investigate the National
Vaccine Injury Compensation Program. There may be financial assistance
through the United States government to help you.
If you feel that you want to network with other
victims, go to our state
information page and see if there is a group in your state.
To read more about VAERS and hot lots on
the NVIC website: click here
To read more about the compensation program on
the NVIC website: click
here
To identify a lawyer who specializes in vaccine
injury: click here (lawyers are
listed by vaccine type).
Remember, you are not alone.
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