Flu Vaccine May Affect Those with Gelatin Allergy

During the winter season and as many are getting their flu shots, the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) warn that individuals who are allergic to gelatin could have a mild to severe reaction to the flu vaccine.

Those with allergies to gelatin should be aware of the potential side effects. The vaccine can be administered as either a shot or as a nasal spray, but both forms can contain gelatin, as Dr. Stephanie Albin, an allergist and ACAAI member, says:

"Gelatin is used in the flu shot, as well as other vaccines, as a stabilizer. Because it is found in the vaccine, those with a known allergy to gelatin can experience allergic reactions, such as hives, sneezing and difficulty breathing."

"Because of this precautions should be taken, such as having a board-certified allergist administer the vaccine in a person with known gelatin allergy in case a reaction occurs."

Potential side effects such as hives, swelling, itchiness, shortness of breath or anaphylaxis, which is life-threatening could occur.

The ACAAI has said although there is a misconception that individuals with egg allergies should not receive a flu vaccination, the organization recently published findings that those with severe egg allergies can actually get a flu vaccine without any special precautions.