H1N1 and Seasonal Flu Vaccines and Egg Allergies

By Julie Stachowiak, PhD
Multiple Sclerosis Guide; Guest blogger

Since the flu vaccines (both H1N1 and seasonal) are grown in chicken egg embryos, anyone with an egg allergy falls into the category of having a "contraindication" to getting the vaccine. However, there may be some good news for those who wish to be vaccinated, but believe that they are allergic to eggs:

Do you have a true allergy? You may be sensitive to eggs or have an "intolerance," but not have a true egg allergy. This can be determined during a simple skin test. If skin tests are negative, you can safely get the vaccine.

Even if you are allergic, you may be able to get the vaccine. Dr. Monteleone, an allergist with University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey says. "It may still be possible to administer the vaccine in graded doses," she explained. "During the office visit, increasing doses are given every 15 minutes, for a total of five doses." She explains that the patient will then be supervised in the office for at least 30 minutes. She emphasizes that although this approach is recommended by the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, it still needs to be done under very close supervision.

Source: Have an Egg Allergy? You May Still be a Candidate for the Flu Vaccine, Says Allergist, Medical News Today; 19 Nov 2009 - 3:00 PST.