Are Flu Shots Dangerous for People Who Suffer From Allergies?

Flu shots are a great way for most people to help avoid getting the flu, but does this apply to people who have allergies? At Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology Medical Group, we of course know that our patients with allergies must take special steps to keep themselves safe and in good health. But how does this apply to flu shots? Read on to learn more and then contact us at 805-658-9500 to make an appointment.

People who suffer from allergies should get flu shots

We believe that flu shots are important for everyone to prevent getting the flu, but this is even more true for our patients who have any type of immune deficiency or asthma. Why? Because these patients can be in serious danger if they get the flu. While most people are simply inconvenienced and uncomfortable when they get the flu, allergy sufferers and immune suppressed folks can face real danger.

Make sure an allergist gives you your flu shot

If you have asthma or another type of immune deficiency, then make sure you go to your local allergist’s office for your flu shot. When you work with Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology Medical Group, our staff will be well aware of your allergies and your unique needs. While it is extremely rare for anyone to have an adverse reaction to a flu shot, it is possible and you do want to have a staff experienced in allergies to immediately respond to any emergency that may arise.

Are people with asthma more likely to catch the flu?

Many of our patients have heard from one person or another that a person who has asthma is more likely to get the flu than a person who doesn’t. This isn’t true. However, it is true that a flu can be much more serious for a person with asthma. Why? Because if you have asthma then you already have airways that are inflamed or otherwise restricted. When you add the flu to that, then you could have a serious asthma attack or your chronic asthma condition could get worse.

This is why the flu shot is so important. That said, it’s essential that the flu shot you get is one that only contains inactive flu virus. In fact, this is true of any of our immune deficient patients and the people in their household. That’s’ why Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology Medical Group is so careful to provide the right vaccine for each of our patients.

What about people with egg allergies?

It’s common for people with allergies to believe that they can’t get a flu shot. It’s even more common for people with an egg allergy to believe that, because there is egg protein in vaccines. However, this is an extremely small amount and it generally isn’t a risk at all. However, it isn’t unheard of for this tiny, miniscule amount of egg to cause an allergic individual to go into anaphylaxis.

Many people with allergies, asthma, or other immune issues see that there’s risk in getting a flu shot and assume that it’s not worth the risk. However, remember that though flu shots can cause adverse reactions in very, very few instances, the chances of dealing with something much worse from getting the flu is much higher. For more information, or to schedule your flu shot, contact Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology Medical Group at 805-658-9500 today.