Dr. Stephanie Albin an allergist presented new findings at the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) annual meeting in Baltimore, Maryland, that indicates that people who have an allergy to gelatin should avoid the present flu shots.
Present flu vaccines contain gelatin as a stabilizer. The allergic reaction is often mistaken for an allergy to eggs.
Gelatin is contained in gummy bears, marshmallows, candy, pharmaceuticals, a variety of foods, and any products derived from the fat of cows, pigs, or fish.
The allergic reaction can include hives, swelling, itchiness, shortness of breath. A much more severe and potentially life threatening reaction can be produced called anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis can cause death from low blood pressure and other causes if not attended to promptly.
Gelatin allergy is extremely rare. The researchers advise that if a parent suspects that their child may be allergic to eggs in the flu vaccine that parents should have their child tested for egg allergy and gelatin allergy at the same time to prevent possible harm from the flu vaccine. The tests may result in a short period of itchy discomfort but will not produce long lasting or severe reactions to potential allergens.
Allergies can be inherited. It is extremely advisable to have your child tested for gelatin allergy if you have an allergy to gelatin before your child gets a flu shot.
