Egg Allergies No Excuse to Avoid Flu Shots
Egg allergies — previously seen as a reason to exercise precaution with flu shots — should no longer prevent or restrict children from receiving the vaccination, according to a letter from the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology.
Earlier recommendations suggested that children with severe egg allergies only get flu shots under the supervision of an allergist, because certain vaccines were grown in eggs.
However, new research has caused the ACAAI to update its recommendation, stating now that such precautions are unnecessary.
"In a large number of research studies published over the last several years, thousands of egg-allergic children, including those with a severe life-threatening reaction to eating eggs, have received injectable influenza vaccine (IIV) as a single dose without a reaction," said allergist John Kelso, MD, fellow of the ACAAI, in a press release.
The studies showed no added risk of anaphylaxis or other allergic reactions for children with egg allergies. Additionally, two new vaccines not grown in eggs have been approved for patients 18 years and older.
"The benefits of the flu vaccination far outweigh any risk," said Dr. Kelso. "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."
Flu season normally runs from October to April, so now is the time to get the vaccine.
After a mild 2011-2012 flu season, the severe 2012-2013 season showed the unpredictability of the virus. Scientists don’t know what to expect from this year’s season, but the best way to protect yourself is to get the flu vaccine.
Only two-thirds of children receive the vaccination each year, despite thousands of hospitalizations each season. Many of these children abstain because of egg allergies — one of the most common childhood food allergies.
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