Frequently asked questions
8 questions
VAERS is the national early-warning system that collects reports of adverse events after vaccination. It is co-managed by CDC and FDA. A report does not mean the vaccine caused the problem.
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Anyone can report: patients, parents and caregivers, and healthcare professionals. Healthcare professionals are required to report certain events.
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The lot number identifies the batch of vaccine. It is printed on your vaccination record card or available from the clinic or pharmacy. Leave it blank if you do not have it.
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Yes. Your progress is saved after each step. Use the resume link shown on the page to return within 7 days.
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Public VAERS data files and the Data Use Guide are on the Data page. Personal information is removed before release.
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No. VAERS does not provide medical advice or determine cause. Contact your healthcare provider, or call 911 in an emergency.
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Use the follow-up tool linked from the Follow-up page with your report number.
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Date of birth, sex, vaccination date, when the problem started, age, the vaccines given, what happened, and the outcome are the essential items. The completeness meter tracks them.
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