Meningitis after Vaccination in United States, a Report from the CDC/FDA Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System [1990-2010] (P03.243)

Abstract

Objective: To determine the rate and characteristics of the occurrence of meningitis after administration of vaccination in the United States. Background There are several reports of meningitis after vaccination. Design/Methods: We used data from the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS), which is a cooperative program for vaccine safety of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). VAERS is a post-marketing safety surveillance program, collecting information about adverse events (possible side effects) that occur after the administration of United States licensed vaccines. Results: There were 722 cases (mean age 9.3 years, range 0.1 to 74.7 years) of meningitis reported after vaccination in the United States, from 1990 to 2010. The onset of meningitis was within 6 weeks after vaccination in 415 cases (57.5%), and within 2 weeks in 327(45.2%), when the date of vaccination is known. Hospitalization and disability were reported in, respectively, 549 (76%) and 50 (6.9%) patients. Meningitis was reported in: 314 cases (43%) after hemophilus influenza b vaccination, 115 cases (15.9%) after administration of the hepatitis B vaccine, 114 (15%) after oral polio vaccination, 104 (14.4%) after DTP (Diphtheria, Tetanus Toxoid, and Pertussis) vaccination, 89 (12.3%) following DTAP (Diphtheria, Tetanus Toxoids, and acellular Pertussis) vaccination, 88 cases (12.1%) after PNC (heptavalent Pneumococcal protein conjugate) vaccination, 84 cases (11.6%) after MMR vaccination, and 67 cases (9.2%) after IPV (Inactivated polio virus) vaccination. Conclusions: The unbalanced distribution of reports of meningitis in the first 6 weeks after vaccination is suggestive of the possibility that some cases may be triggered by vaccination. Disclosure: Dr. Shekh has nothing to disclose. Dr. Abukwaik has nothing to disclose. Dr. Souayah has received personal compensation for activities with Walgreens as a consultant. Dr. Souayah has received research support from Talecris.