Egg Allergy and Flu Vaccine

by Ren Chats
(Denmark)

Children with egg allergy may also be able to take seasonal Flu vaccine without any fear of adverse reaction; proves the study published in Dec’2012 issue of the Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology.

Over several decades seasonal Trivalent Influenza Vaccine has not been administered to children with egg allergy for fear of effectuating an allergic reaction. This concern is attributed to traces of ov-albumin found in the vaccine, as it is usually grown on chick embryo.

The results of the randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study conducted by Matthew J. Greenhawt and colleagues from University of Michigan Medical School, is likely to bring in change in clinical guidelines for usage of Flu Vaccine.

The study was conducted over a period of about 18 months at several centers. None of the participants, though severely allergic to egg, showed any untoward reaction to the vaccine. The study has therefore concluded that Trivalent Influenza Vaccination is safe even in children with severe egg allergy.

Pediatricians worldwide will welcome this; one more preventive child health tool. Egg allergy is fairly common, and a significant proportion of them suffer from Seasonal Flu every year. However, they will wait for revised guidelines before they dare to introduce it in their practice.

Reference:

“Safe administration of the seasonal trivalent influenza vaccine to children with severe egg allergy”; Matthew J. Greenhawt et al: Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2012;109:426-430.

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