ACIP updates recommendations for influenza vaccination
Although there are few changes from last year, there is a new approach to administering egg-based vaccine to those with a history of egg allergy.
And finally, appropriate precautions already are recommended for administration of any vaccine. The CDC guidance for best practices for administering vaccines states: “Although allergic reactions are a common concern for vaccine providers, these reactions are uncommon and anaphylaxis following vaccines is rare, occurring at a rate of approximately one per million doses for many vaccines. Epinephrine and equipment for managing an airway should be available for immediate use.”4
What does this mean in practice? Family physicians who administer influenza vaccines do not need to use special precautions for any influenza vaccine, or use non-egg-based vaccines, for those who have a history of egg allergy. However, they should be prepared to respond to a severe allergic reaction just as they would for any other vaccine. Any vestigial practices pertaining to egg allergy and influenza vaccines—such as vaccine skin testing prior to vaccination (with dilution of vaccine if positive), vaccination deferral or administration via alternative dosing protocols, and split dosing of vaccine—are unnecessary and should be abandoned.
