FAQs on COVID-19 Vaccines and Allergies

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Individuals with a history of anaphylaxis to food, an identified drug or vaccine, or an insect sting CAN receive any COVID-19 vaccine, as long as they are not known to be allergic to any component (excipient) of the vaccine

Although the world awaits the distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine, medical experts have identified the onset of certain allergies including anaphylaxis. The UK-based anaphylaxis campaign has therefore compiled a list of FAQs and answers with the assistance of its clinical panel and members from British Society for Allergy and Clinical Immunology (BSACI).

I’m allergic to penicillin. Can I have a COVID-19 vaccination?

Yes, allergy to penicillins is not a contraindication to the Pfizer/BioNTech or AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine.

I had some patches of itchy skin after my first dose of COVID-19 vaccination (but no systemic symptoms). Should I still get my second dose?

In the Green Book which has the latest information on vaccines and vaccination procedures the BSACI has advised that:

‘Individuals with a localised urticarial (itchy) skin reaction (without systemic symptoms) to the first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine should receive the second dose of vaccine with prolonged observation (30 minutes) in a setting with full resuscitation facilities (e.g. a hospital).’

I have a latex allergy. Will the vaccine syringe contain latex?

No, according to the manufacturer, neither the Pfizer/BioNTech COVID-19 or AstraZeneca vaccine vial contains latex.

The Pfizer/BioNtech vaccination is supplied in vials that have a stopper made from Bromobutyl. This is a synthetic form of rubber which does not contain any dry natural rubber (latex). Pfizer have confirmed that latex is not used at all in the raw materials used to produce the vaccine.

The AstraZeneca vaccination is supplied in vials that have a stopper made from Halobutyl which is also a synthetic form of rubber which does not contain any dry natural rubber (latex)

It is important to let your Healthcare Provider know about your latex allergy, so they can ensure they do not use any latex containing products whilst treating you.

I have a severe food allergy. Does this mean I’m unable to have a COVID-19 vaccine?

The Green Book states that ‘Following close surveillance of the initial roll-out, the MHRA has advised that individuals with a history of anaphylaxis to food, an identified drug or vaccine, or an insect sting CAN receive any COVID-19 vaccine, as long as they are not known to be allergic to any component (excipient) of the vaccine. All recipients of the Pfizer BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine should be kept for observation and monitored for a minimum of 15 minutes. Facilities for management of anaphylaxis should be available at all vaccination sites.’

I have an egg allergy. Do the COVID-19 vaccines contain egg and are they safe to have?

Neither the Pfizer/BioNTech or the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine contain any egg proteins and neither vaccine is contraindicated in egg allergy.

Is there an increased risk for patients with asthma in having a COVID-19 vaccine?

No, there is not. However good asthma control in the weeks before vaccination is important (just like with all other vaccines).

In the Green Book, the British Society for Allergy and Clinical Immunology (BSACI) has advised that:

‘Individuals with a history of immediate onset-anaphylaxis to multiple classes of drugs or an unexplained anaphylaxis should not be vaccinated with the Pfizer BioNTech vaccine. The AstraZeneca vaccine can be used as an alternative (if not otherwise contraindicated).’

Source : https://www.anaphylaxis.org.uk/covid-19-advice/pfizer-covid-19-vaccine-and-allergies/

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FAQs on COVID-19 Vaccines and Allergies

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