How to File a VAERS Report
Empower yourself. Reporting adverse events is the only way to create a public record of vaccine injuries.
Why Report?
The Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) is the nation's early warning system. It is estimated that less than 1% of vaccine injuries are ever reported. By filing a report, you are helping to uncover safety signals that might otherwise be ignored. You do not need a doctor's permission to file.
Step 1: Gather Information
Before you start, have the following information ready. The form will time out after 20 minutes of inactivity, so preparation is key.
- Date of Birth
- Age at vaccination
- Sex
- Current illness/medications
- Allergies
- Vaccine Brand Name (e.g., Pfizer, Moderna)
- Lot Number (Crucial for tracking bad batches)
- Dose Number (1st, 2nd, Booster)
- Date & Time of Vaccination
- Injection Site (e.g., Left Arm)
- Date & Time symptoms started
- Description of symptoms
- Doctor visits or hospitalizations
- Lab results or diagnosis (if any)
- Recovery status
Step 2: File the Report
You have two options for filing. We strongly recommend Option 1 (Online) for immediate submission.
- Go to the official VAERS online reporting tool.
- Follow the on-screen prompts to enter patient, vaccine, and adverse event data.
- Review your information carefully.
- Submit and save your VAERS ID number immediately.
- Download the writable PDF form from the VAERS website.
- Fill it out on your computer at your own pace.
- Return to the upload page to submit the completed file.
Step 3: What Happens Next?
Confirmation
You will receive a confirmation email (if provided) or a letter by mail with your permanent VAERS ID number.
Public Record
Your report (anonymized) will eventually be added to the public VAERS database, allowing researchers to see the data.
Follow-up
The CDC or FDA may contact you for more medical records if the reaction was severe (hospitalization, disability, death).
Important Legal Note
Filing a VAERS report is NOT the same as filing a claim for compensation. If you are seeking financial compensation for a vaccine injury, you must file a separate petition with the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP). There is a strict statute of limitations (usually 3 years from symptom onset).