Those allergic to eggs should get flu shot

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ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, Ill., Nov. 30 (UPI) -- People with allergies to eggs should be vaccinated against influenza, U.S. allergists say, citing new medical recommendations.

Dr. Stanley Fineman, president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, said the organization has changed its recommendation concerning the influenza vaccine because research showed few adverse reactions to the vaccine to those allergic to eggs.

"The very low risk of reacting to the injection is greatly outweighed by the risks associated with the flu," Fineman said in a statement. "The flu can be especially severe for people with asthma and other respiratory illnesses."

The ACAAI recommends that those with a previous history of egg allergy get the injectable vaccine in a medical facility where any allergic emergencies can be recognized and treated should they occur, Fineman said.

"For those who have had serious reactions after eating eggs, the vaccine should be administered in an allergist's office," Fineman said.

In the past, there was concern that because the flu vaccine is grown in eggs, residual protein could trigger a reaction in those with allergies to eggs, Fineman said.