title: Introducing seasonal influenza vaccine in low-income countries: an adverse events following immunization survey in the Lao People's Democratic Republic.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  In 2012, Lao PDR introduced seasonal influenza vaccine in pregnant women, persons aged ≥50 years, persons with chronic diseases, and healthcare personnel. We assessed adverse events following immunization (AEFI).
  
  
  METHODS
  We used a multistage randomized cluster sample design to interview vaccine recipients.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Between April and May 2012, 355,902 were vaccinated. Of 2089 persons interviewed, 261 (12·5%) reported one or more AEFI. The most commonly reported AEFIs were local reactions. No hospitalizations or deaths were reported; 16% sought medical care. Acceptance and awareness of vaccination were high.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Following the introduction of seasonal influenza vaccine in Lao PDR, self-reported adverse events were mild.
authors.affiliation: Lao PDR Country Office Western Pacific Regional Office WHO, Vientiane, Lao People's Democratic Republic.
authors.forename: Manilay
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Phengxay
authors.forename: Sara A
authors.initials: SA
authors.lastname: Mirza
authors.forename: Rita
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Reyburn
authors.forename: Anonh
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Xeuatvongsa
authors.forename: Christian
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Winter
authors.forename: Hannah
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Lewis
authors.forename: Sonja J
authors.initials: SJ
authors.lastname: Olsen
authors.forename: Reiko
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Tsuyuoka
authors.forename: Viengphone
authors.initials: V
authors.lastname: Khanthamaly
authors.forename: Francisco S
authors.initials: FS
authors.lastname: Palomeque
authors.forename: Joseph S
authors.initials: JS
authors.lastname: Bresee
authors.forename: Ann C
authors.initials: AC
authors.lastname: Moen
authors.forename: Andrew L
authors.initials: AL
authors.lastname: Corwin
mesh_terms: D002908:Chronic Disease; D005260:Female; D006282:Health Personnel; D006801:Humans; D017589:Immunization Programs; D007252:Influenza Vaccines / Q000009:adverse effects*; D007251:Influenza, Human / Q000517:prevention & control*; D007812:Laos; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011247:Pregnancy; D012621:Seasons; D057566:Self Report; D014611:Vaccination / Q000009:adverse effects*
chemical_list: D007252:Influenza Vaccines
keywords: Adverse events following immunization; Lao PDR; influenza vaccine