Concerns About AZ Vaccine for Allergy-Prone Patients and Elderly

AZ-related issues?

Hello Dr.
Hong, I would like to ask you two questions.

1.
I am allergic to penicillin (I experienced rashes on my hands and feet, and swelling in my eyes and ears).
I also have mild allergic reactions to some long-acting pain relief and anti-inflammatory medications (such as feeling swelling in my eyes and an increase in body temperature).
I am allergic to latex (condoms), which causes mild swelling in my genital area.
Additionally, I experience significant itching and difficulty healing from mosquito bites.
Given these allergies, is there any risk in receiving the AZ vaccine? Can I get vaccinated?
2.
My grandfather is approximately 80 years old and has just completed radiation therapy for prostate cancer (it has been one month since the treatment ended).
He also has diabetes and hypertension, both of which are well-controlled with medication and he appears to be in stable condition.
Is it safe for him to receive the AZ vaccine?
Thank you for taking the time to answer my questions!

Pen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/06/12

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello, 1.
Allergy to penicillin is not a contraindication for the AZ vaccine, so it can be administered.
2.
Your grandfather's underlying conditions are also not contraindications for the AZ vaccine, whether in Taiwan or abroad.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2021/06/12

More Info

When considering the administration of the AstraZeneca (AZ) vaccine for individuals with a history of allergies and elderly patients, it is essential to evaluate the specific concerns and medical histories involved.

1. Allergy Concerns: You mentioned having a history of allergies, including a reaction to penicillin characterized by rashes and swelling, as well as reactions to certain long-acting pain medications and latex. It is important to note that while allergic reactions can occur with any vaccine, the AZ vaccine does not contain penicillin or latex, which are the substances you are allergic to. Therefore, the risk of a severe allergic reaction to the AZ vaccine is considered low for individuals with these specific allergies. However, it is always prudent to discuss your allergy history with your healthcare provider before vaccination. They may recommend monitoring you for a short period after vaccination to ensure that any potential allergic reaction can be promptly addressed.

2. Elderly Patients with Comorbidities: Your grandfather, who is 80 years old and has a history of prostate cancer, diabetes, and hypertension, is in a category that requires careful consideration. However, the presence of these conditions is not a contraindication for receiving the AZ vaccine. In fact, older adults and those with underlying health conditions are often prioritized for vaccination due to their increased risk of severe illness from COVID-19. The benefits of vaccination in preventing COVID-19 and its complications generally outweigh the risks associated with vaccination in this population. It is advisable for your grandfather to receive the vaccine, especially since he has completed his cancer treatment and is under control for his other conditions.

In summary, both you and your grandfather can safely receive the AZ vaccine, provided that you consult with your healthcare providers regarding your specific medical histories. They can offer personalized advice and ensure that any necessary precautions are taken.

Additional Considerations:
- Monitoring Post-Vaccination: For individuals with a history of allergies, it is recommended to stay at the vaccination site for at least 15-30 minutes post-injection to monitor for any immediate allergic reactions.

- Elderly Vaccination: The elderly may experience more pronounced side effects from vaccines, but these are typically mild and resolve within a few days. The risk of severe side effects is low, and vaccination is crucial for protecting this vulnerable population.

- General Vaccine Safety: The AZ vaccine has undergone extensive clinical trials and has been shown to be safe and effective in various populations, including those with allergies and older adults. The benefits of vaccination, such as reducing the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and death from COVID-19, far outweigh the potential risks.

In conclusion, vaccination is a critical tool in controlling the COVID-19 pandemic, and both individuals with allergies and elderly patients should be encouraged to get vaccinated, with appropriate medical guidance and monitoring.

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