The risk of simple febrile seizures after immunisation with a new group B meningococcal vaccine, New Zealand

Vaccine. 2008 Feb 6;26(6):739-42. doi: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2007.12.001. Epub 2007 Dec 26.

Abstract

As part of safety monitoring during a group B meningococcal disease vaccination campaign in New Zealand, we examined the possible excess risk of vaccine-associated simple febrile seizures (SFS). We conducted a cohort analysis using data from active hospital-based surveillance in the South Auckland area and a national immunisation register. Based on analysis of approximately 63,000 doses, we found no statistically significant increase in SFS incidence within 1, 2, 4, or 7 days after vaccination for any/all doses administered to children aged 6 months through 4 years. We concluded that the vaccine is unlikely to induce a heightened risk of SFS.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Child, Preschool
  • Cohort Studies
  • Humans
  • Incidence
  • Infant
  • Meningococcal Infections / immunology*
  • Meningococcal Vaccines / adverse effects*
  • Neisseria meningitidis, Serogroup B / immunology*
  • New Zealand / epidemiology
  • Risk Factors
  • Seizures, Febrile / chemically induced
  • Seizures, Febrile / epidemiology*
  • Vaccination*

Substances

  • Meningococcal Vaccines