This article is more than 5 years old. Information may no longer be current.
Adverse events after immunization likely related to alcohol solution used
Click Here to Manage Email Alerts
Twenty-four of 86 clients receiving influenza vaccination at workplace immunization clinics developed adverse events after immunization because the nurses began using alcohol as a disinfectant when they depleted their alcohol swab supply, according to data presented at the 1st National Immunization Conference Online.
Researchers from McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, conducted a retrospective review using records from the agency that administered the vaccines, from the workplace, adverse events after immunization reports and integrated public health information system records.
At one clinic, three different nurses immunized 253 clients between 9 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., but the nurses depleted their alcohol swab supply at approximately 1 p.m. Instead, they began using an alcohol solution as a disinfectant.
No adverse events were reported after immunization among those immunized before 1 p.m., but 24 clients vaccinated after this time period experienced an adverse event that day — most arising within 30 minutes of immunization. Among 96% of the clients who experienced the adverse event, the event was a rash, including mucosal involvement, swelling at or near the injection site or both.
When the alcohol solution was analyzed, it was found to contain 66% isopropanol, 15% acetone and other trace volatile organic compounds. The researchers said the clients with adverse events likely experienced irritant contact dermatitis.
“The adverse events following immunization that 24 of the workplace immunization clinic clients experienced were likely cases of irritant contact dermatitis that arose from the use of ‘alcohol’ solution containing acetone,” said Elizabeth Birk-Urovitz, an MD candidate at McMaster University. “Consistent, meticulous adherence to vaccine administration protocols is imperative to reduce the likelihood of adverse events following immunization and maintain public confidence in vaccine safety.”
For more information:
- Birk-Urovitz E. #30010. Presented at: 1st National Immunization Conference Online; March 26-28, 2012.
Disclosure: Ms. Birk-Urovitz reports no relevant financial disclosures.