How Can You Prevent Immunization Error-Related AEFI?

Do not store and/or pack other diluents or medications together with the COVID-19 vaccine.
Always check the labels of vaccines and diluents before reconstitution. Vaccines and diluents should be from the same manufacturer.
Follow manufacturer’s recommendations on storage, vaccine preparation, route and technique of administration, and contraindications/precautions.
Draw the AD syringe just before vaccination.
Do not touch the needle.
Do not touch the rubber cap of the vaccine vial.
If reconstituted, never carry vaccines from one place to another.
Do not cover the vaccine carrier with the lid while the reconstituted vaccine vial is in the foam pad.
Discard the vaccine if it was reconstituted before the maximum recommended time or at the end of the session, whichever comes first.
When in doubt, contact your supervisor for clarification. Do not hesitate to report issues or concerns when identified.

Fainting (Syncope)

Individuals are at risk of falls due to syncope during and after vaccine administration.
To decrease this risk, have a place for patients to sit down while they are vaccinated and be ready to lower them to a lying position, if needed.
Vaccinators are encouraged to observe the vaccinated person (sitting or lying down) for:

30 minutes in people with a history of a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) due to any cause.
15 minutes for all other people to monitor for any immediate adverse reactions.

Allergic Reaction (Anaphylaxis)

Anaphylactic reactions in people receiving the COVID-19 vaccine outside of clinical trials have been reported.
In general anaphylaxis is a very rare but severe and potentially fatal reaction.
Proper diagnosis and urgent treatment and management are essential.
When sudden loss of consciousness occurs >5–10 minutes after immunization, anaphylaxis should be considered as a possible diagnosis, in addition to fainting (vasovagal syncope).
Appropriate medical treatment used to manage immediate allergic reactions e.g., epinephrine (Adrenaline) must be immediately available in the event an acute anaphylactic reaction occurs following administration of the vaccine.