Characteristics of adverse events following immunization reporting systems: A scoping review

Abstract

Objective This study aimed to identify characteristics of adverse events following immunization (AEFI) reporting systems and vaccine adverse events reporting systems (VAERS) including technical platforms, user groups, data elements, functional and non-functional requirements. Methods In this scoping review, various databases were searched from 1st January 2015 to 31st December 2024, and all types of studies that explained AEFI reporting system/VAERS characteristics were considered. The findings were reported descriptively. Results Different technical platforms including web-based, mobile-based, or hybrid platforms were used by multiple user groups. Data elements included personal, clinical, vaccination, and adverse events data. The functional requirements included recording vaccination and adverse events data as well as generating reports. Non-functional requirements were related to system security, data privacy, etc. Conclusion This review presented a set of characteristics that has been considered for different AEFI reporting systems and VAERS. The results can be used for designing more comprehensive AEFI reporting systems in different countries. These features along with new digital technologies and analytical tools including artificial intelligence offer more potential to enhance efficiency and effectiveness. Future research should focus on AI-driven methodologies, including natural language processing, machine learning techniques, and predictive analytics, while addressing ethical, regulatory, and practical challenges.