Adverse Events Diagnosed Within Three Days of Vaccine Administration in Dogs
J Am Vet Med Assoc 227[7]:1102-1108 Oct 1'05 Retrospective Study 29 Refs
* George E. Moore, DVM, MS, PhD, DACVPM, DACVIM; Lynn F. Guptill, DVM, PhD, DACVIM; Michael P. Ward, BVSc, MS, MPVM, PhD; Nita W. Glickman, MPH, PhD; Karen K. Faunt, DVM, DACVIM; Hugh B. Lewis, BVMS, DACVP; Lawrence T. Glickman, VMD, DrPH
* Department of Veterinary Pathobiology School of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907-2027
OBJECTIVE: To determine incidence rates and potential risk factors for vaccine-associated adverse events (VAAEs) diagnosed within 3 days of administration in dogs.
DESIGN: Retrospective cohort study.
ANIMALS: 1,226,159 dogs vaccinated at 360 veterinary hospitals.
PROCEDURE: Electronic records from January 1, 2002, through December 31, 2003, were searched for possible VAAEs (nonspecific vaccine reaction, allergic reaction, urticaria, or anaphylaxis) diagnosed within 3 days of vaccine administration. Information included age, weight, sex, neuter status, and breed. Specific clinical signs and treatments were reviewed in a random sample of 400 affected dogs. The association between potential risk factors and a VAAE was estimated by use of multivariate logistic regression.
RESULTS: 4,678 adverse events (38.2/10,000 dogs vaccinated) were associated with administration of 3,439,576 doses of vaccine to 1,226,159 dogs. The VAAE rate decreased significantly as body weight increased. Risk was 27% to 38% greater for neutered versus sexually intact dogs and 35% to 64% greater for dogs approximately 1 to 3 years old versus 2 to 9 months old. The risk of a VAAE significantly increased as the number of vaccine doses administered per office visit increased; each additional vaccine significantly increased risk of an adverse event by 27% in dogs < 10 kg (22 Ib) and 12% in dogs > 10 kg.
CONCLUSIONS & CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Young adult small-breed neutered dogs that received multiple vaccines per office visit were at greatest risk of a VAAE within 72 hours after vaccination. These factors should be considered in risk assessment and risk communication with clients regarding vaccination.