The availability of globally accepted and implemented standardized case definitions of AEFIs will render important data comparable. This is a fundamental requirement for an acceptable international assessment of immunization safety. The Working Groups will initially seek evidence of current practice and propose collaborative definitions and a change to current practice as needed. Reference Groups will then review draft collaborative definitions and propose adjustments if necessary to guarantee wide consensus. Practicability is to be evaluated through application of our collaborative definitions in existing surveillance systems and vaccine trials.
Definitions are to be finalized for implementation after incorporation of all information gathered.
Immunization safety researchers from scientific, public health and regulatory organizations as well as vaccine manufacturers are involved at any stage of the Process. The work of the Collaboration is based on a large number of worldwide volunteers as well as funding from sponsors.