Even those with egg allergies should receive the flu vaccine

American College of Allergy, Asthma and ImmunologyDec 1 2011

With the coughing, sneezing and achy flu season upon us, new recommendations say that even those with egg allergies should receive the flu vaccine.

Allergist Dr. Stanley Fineman, president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, is available to discuss ACAAI's new recommendations based on research showing few adverse reactions to the vaccine.

"The very low risk of reacting to the injection is greatly outweighed by the risks associated with the flu," said Dr. Fineman. "The flu can be especially severe for people with asthma and other respiratory illnesses."

ACAAI recommends that those with a previous history of egg allergy get the injectable vaccine in a medical facility where any allergic emergencies can be recognized and treated if they occur. For those who have had serious reactions after eating eggs, the vaccine should be administered in an allergist's office.

In the past, there was concern that because the flu vaccine is grown in eggs, residual protein could trigger a reaction in those with allergies.

To schedule an interview with Dr. Fineman, please contact Ashley Mattys at [email protected], or 312-558-1770.