Vaccine allergy/adverse reaction Referral Access Criteria

Referrers should use this page when referring patients to public adult immunology outpatient services for vaccine allergy/adverse reaction.
Emergency referral
If any of the following are present or suspected, refer the patient to the emergency department or seek emergency medical advice if in a remote region.
  • Current symptoms of anaphylaxis
  • Airway compromising angioedema
Immediate referral
Orange exclamation mark in triangle: orange alertImmediately contact on-call registrar or service to arrange immediate immunology assessment (seen within 7 days):
  • Nil

To contact the relevant service, please see Clinician Assist WA: Immunology requests (external site).

Clinical indications for outpatient referral
If any of these issues are present, refer to outpatient services through the Central Referral Service (CRS).
  • Suspected adverse reaction following a vaccination
  • Assessment of suitability for vaccination
Mandatory information
Referrals missing 'mandatory information' with no explanation provided may not be accepted by site. If 'mandatory information' is not included, the explanation must be provided in the body of the referral (e.g. patient unable to access test in regional or remote areas or due to financial reason).

This information is required to inform accurate and timely triage. If unable to attach reports, please include relevant information/findings in the body of the referral and advise where (provider) investigation/imaging was completed.

 History
  • Relevant history, onset, duration, severity, and nature of symptoms (e.g. angioedema, urticaria, myocarditis, pericarditis)
  • Vaccination administered
  • Previous vaccinations received
  • Management received
  • Any urgent need for further vaccine administration
  • Current medication list
 Examination
  • Nil
 Investigations
  • Nil
Highly desirable
History
  • Vaccination administered dose number
Examination
  • Nil
Investigations
  • Investigations and specialist letters regarding adverse reaction if relevant e.g. ECG, ECHO            
Indicative clinical urgency category

Category 1

Appointment within 30 days

  • Suspected severe adverse reaction following a vaccination
  • Suspected adverse reaction following vaccination and urgent need for clarification of suitability for further vaccination

Category 2

Appointment within 90 days

  • Assessment of all other vaccination adverse reactions

Category 3

Appointment within 365 days

  • No defined category 3 criteria
Exclusions
Useful information

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Last reviewed: 05-07-2024