Vaccine Allergy

As we close the books on 2020 and look ahead to the New Year, it is worth taking a look back at what we learned during the year that we leave behind. Each year, we publish numerous articles on our blog about vaccine safety, vaccine injuries and the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP), and 2020 was no exception. Here is a look back at some of the top articles published by national vaccine lawyer Leah V.

For individuals who are allergic to gelatin or egg protein, getting immunized with certain vaccines can carry the risk of anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic (or “hypersensitivity”) reaction; and, while it is rare overall, it presents a significant concern for individuals who have these allergies. As a result, prior to getting vaccinated, individuals who have gelatin or egg protein allergies should consult with their physicians to determine whether it is safe to do so.

Which Vaccines Contain Gelatin?

Gelatin is used as a preservative in various vaccine formulations. For example, gelatin may be present in vaccines including (but not limited to) those used to prevent:

• Diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis (DTaP)

• Influenza (nasal spray formulations)

• Measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) and the separate vaccinations for each of these diseases

• Rabies

• Singles

• Varicella (chickenpox)

Which Vaccines Contain Egg Protein?

Egg protein is used in the production of certain vaccines.

If your child has had an adverse reaction to the flu shot or any other vaccination, there are a few steps you will want to take to ensure your child’s wellbeing and to make sure your family has the financial resources it needs to manage the costs of your child’s illness or injury. Here, national vaccine lawyer Leah V. Durant explains what parents need to know:

1. Seek Medical Attention for Your Child Promptly

All vaccines have potential side effects; and, for many vaccines, the risk of side effects is particularly high among children. However, in some cases, what appear to be side effects can actually be symptoms of a potentially-serious

Having an allergic reaction to a vaccine can potentially lead to serious consequences. A severe allergic reaction is known as anaphylaxis, and the effects of anaphylaxis can range from swelling and hives to anaphylactic shock.

So, how can you find out if you are allergic to a vaccine?

Consult with Your Doctor

As with all medical questions, if you would like to find out if you are allergic to a vaccine, you should consult with your doctor. Your doctor can review your medical history, order any necessary tests and determine if you are at risk of having a severe allergic reaction to a particular vaccine.

Review the Vaccine’s List of Ingredients

When someone says that he or she is allergic to a vaccine, what that person really means is that he or she is allergic to a particular vaccine ingredient.