[DUPLICATE] Using automated text messages to monitor adverse events following immunisation in general practice.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the performance of SmartVax- a prototypic active monitoring system for adverse events following immunisation (AEFI) using short message service (SMS) text messages and clinical data extracted from commercially available medical practice management software. DESIGN- SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS: Between 11 November 2011 and 10 June 2013- adult patients and parents of paediatric patients receiving routine vaccinations in general practice were sent an SMS by SmartVax enquiring if they had experienced any AEFI and requesting a reply by SMS. Attempts were made to telephone patients who did not reply by SMS. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The proportion of patients sent an SMS who replied by SMS- and the proportion of respondents indicating possible AEFI. RESULTS: Of 3281 vaccinated patients- 3226 (98.3%) had a mobile telephone number on record and were sent an SMS. Of 2342 patients (72.6%/ 95% CI- 70.0%-75.1%) who responded by SMS- 264 (11.3%/ 95 CI- 9.9%-12.7%) reported possible AEFI. The response rate was