Special precautions regarding medical setting and waiting periods after administration of injectable influenza vaccine (IIV) to egg-allergic recipients beyond those recommended for any vaccine are not warranted, according to study results published in the current issue of the Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, the official journal of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI).
The CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommends that children with known egg allergies be given the vaccination under the care of a primary care provider, if the child presents only with hives after eating eggs; the shot should be given under the supervision of an allergist if consuming eggs produces more serious reactions.
“The benefits of the flu vaccination far outweigh any risk,” said allergist John Kelso, MD, fellow of the ACAAI. “As with any vaccine, all personnel and facilities administering flu shots should have procedures in place for the rare instance of anaphylaxis, a severe life-threatening allergic reaction. If you have questions or concerns, contact your allergist.”
