FAQ: I have an allergy – can I get the flu shot?

Every year there are numerous questions about the flu shot. Some of the more frequently asked questions we hear from staff this year are about allergies. Your questions answered below:

Q: I have a latex allergy – can I get the flu vaccine?

A: Yes, the stopper on the vaccine vials is butyl rubber which is latex-free. All products used to administer the vaccines are latex-free.

Q: What if I have an egg allergy?

A: People with mild egg allergies (including anaphylaxis to eggs) can safely receive the influenza vaccine. Numerous studies have shown that egg-allergic persons can safely receive the injectable influenza vaccine (flu shot) without the need for skin testing or other measures, even if they have had a severe reaction to egg in the past. Such individuals can be immunized against influenza in the usual manner with the standard period of observation (15 minutes) following receipt.

Q: I am allergic to drugs? Can I get a flu shot?

A: Yes, you most likely can. As we have a number of influenza vaccines available, we probably have a product that is safe for you. Your immunizer will explore your history of allergy in order to determine the best product choice for you.

Q: I had a reaction to influenza vaccine in the past? Can I still get a flu vaccine?

A: People who experienced local injection site reactions or expected systemic reactions (see below) can safely continue to receive the flu vaccine. If you had a severe reaction (difficulty breathing, hives, etc), please contact workplace health so your reaction can be documented. All reactions following vaccinations are reported to a VCH medical health officer (MHO) for review. The MHO will determine whether you can continue to safely receive influenza vaccine or whether you may benefit from a consultation with a specialist such as an allergist. This consultation can be arranged in a timely fashion for VCH staff members.

Of course, if you choose, you do not have to receive the flu vaccine. In order to comply with the workplace health flu policy, you can still choose to wear a mask when in a patient care area.
Common reactions to the flu vaccine

Common reactions to the influenza vaccine or flu shot include soreness, redness and swelling where the vaccine was given. Other symptoms can include fever, headache, aching muscles and fatigue that may last one to two days. More serious reactions, such as anaphylaxis, are very rare. Vaccine providers are trained and prepared to watch out for and respond to all potential reactions.

You can get the flu shot from:

• The Peer Nurse Immunizer (PNI) on your unit (if your department is participating in the PNI program) running between November 3 – November 27.
• VCH Staff flu clinics running from October 27 to November 27.
• Local pharmacies
• Family physicians
• Walk-in clinics

For more information, please visit www.vch.ca/staff-flu