Introduction: There have been widespread concerns about the safety of the COVID-19 vaccines, particularly when it comes to pediatric populations, and it is important to provide information for parents and guardians to make informed decisions. This study sought to identify the adverse events or reactions (AERs) associated with the COVID-19 vaccines in Kansans aged 6 to 17.
Methods: The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' "Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System" (VAERS) database was searched from May 11, 2021, to April 30, 2022, for AERs related to COVID-19 vaccines in adolescents ages 6 to 17. Results were grouped by vaccine manufacturer and patient gender.
Results: A total of 159 individuals reported 409 AERS, with an average of 2.6 per person (± 1.7; median = 2; range 1 to 10). Females (n = 95) reported 237 AERs, with an average of 2.5 each (±1.7; median = 2; range 1 to 8), while males (n = 64) reported 172 AERs, with an average of 2.7 each (±1.8; median = 2; range 1 to 8). The most common adverse event associated with Pfizer® vaccination was syncope/fainting.
Conclusions: COVID-19 vaccines have undergone intensive monitoring and safety regulations since the onset of the coronavirus. With over 591 million doses administered, there was compelling evidence that the COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective. Informing the public about the potential AERs of the COVID-19 vaccines in children can help to alleviate vaccine hesitancy and strengthen vaccination confidence.
Keywords: COVID-19 vaccines; Kansas; adverse drug events; vaccination; vaccine refusal.
© 2022 The University of Kansas Medical Center.