Influenza Vaccines May Vary in Amount of Allergenic Components

People with egg or gelatin allergies shouldn’t assume that just because they’ve had a flu shot safely in the past they will be able to again, according to a new study, presented at the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology annual meeting in Phoenix Nov. 11-16.

Researchers found influenza vaccines (seasonal and H1N1) can contain different amounts of allergenic components, most commonly egg and/or gelatin. These varying amounts of egg and gelatin mean people who are allergic can’t assume the flu shot they are getting won’t cause a reaction, say researchers.

Allergists suggest that any egg- or gelatin-allergic patient, or anyone with history of severe reaction to any type of influenza vaccine, be tested to the specific vaccine lot number they will be given prior to immunization. “It should never be assumed that tolerating one dose of influenza vaccine suggests future tolerance,” say the authors.

Title: Adverse Reactions to H1N1 Vaccine after Tolerating Seasonal Flu Immunization

Lead author: ACAAI member Amber M. Patterson, MD, The Ohio State University/Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH

By the numbers:
Egg allergy is the second most common food allergy in children, affecting 1.5-3.2 percent of children. Sixty-eight percent of children outgrow egg allergy by age 16. An allergist can help identify egg allergies and discuss options for flu shots. Since about 70 percent of asthmatics also have allergies, people with asthma should discuss the importance of getting vaccinated with their allergist.

About ACAAI

The ACAAI is a professional medical organization headquartered in Arlington Heights, Ill., that promotes excellence in the practice of the subspecialty of allergy and immunology. The College, comprising more than 5,000 allergists-immunologists and related health care professionals, fosters a culture of collaboration and congeniality in which its members work together and with others toward the common goals of patient care, education, advocacy and research.

Follow the ACCAI annual meeting on Twitter at #ACAAI2010.

The ACAAI Press Room is located in Room 121B at the Phoenix Convention Center, November 12 - 15, 2010; phone 602-514-5360, .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

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Source:  American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI)