Vaccine Eligibility After Allergy Shots: A Guide for Seniors

Medication Consultation

Grandma has recently been notified that she can receive the Moderna vaccine.
On June 30, she mentioned that she has an allergy and received an injection at the clinic (Polomin lml).
Does this injection count as a vaccine? Does Grandma need to wait 14 days after this injection before scheduling her vaccination? (She has already made an appointment, but there are only 9 days between June 30 and the appointment date.)

EJ, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/07/06

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello, this medication is an antihistamine and is not a vaccine, nor will it affect the administration of vaccines.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2021/07/06

More Info

When it comes to vaccine eligibility, especially for seniors, understanding the implications of previous allergy shots is crucial. In your grandmother's case, she received an allergy shot (Polomin) on June 30. It's important to clarify that allergy shots, also known as allergen immunotherapy, are not classified as vaccines in the same way that COVID-19 vaccines are. Vaccines are designed to prevent infectious diseases, while allergy shots are intended to reduce sensitivity to allergens over time.

According to current guidelines, individuals who have received allergy shots should ideally wait a certain period before getting vaccinated, particularly if the allergy shots were administered recently. The general recommendation is to wait at least 14 days after receiving an allergy shot before getting vaccinated. This waiting period helps ensure that any potential allergic reactions can be properly managed and that the immune system is not overly stimulated by multiple immunological interventions at once.

In your grandmother's case, since she received her allergy shot on June 30 and is scheduled to get the Moderna vaccine before the 14-day period has elapsed, it would be prudent to reschedule her vaccination appointment. While the risk of a severe allergic reaction is generally low, it is always better to err on the side of caution, especially for seniors who may have other underlying health conditions.

Moreover, it is essential to consider the specific type of allergy shot administered. If the shot contained a known allergen that could potentially interact with the vaccine, this could further complicate matters. Therefore, consulting with her healthcare provider before proceeding with the vaccination is advisable. They can provide personalized advice based on her medical history and the specifics of her allergy treatment.

In summary, your grandmother should ideally wait 14 days after her allergy shot before receiving the Moderna vaccine. This waiting period is a precautionary measure to ensure her safety and to minimize the risk of any adverse reactions. It is always best to consult with her healthcare provider for tailored advice and to confirm the best course of action regarding her vaccination schedule.

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