Issues with the administration of the second dose of the AZ vaccine?
Hello.
My elder family member has an appointment to receive the second dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine tomorrow.
They had a head injury from a car accident in their younger years and have been experiencing occasional headaches at night (less frequently in the morning) over the past few days.
This morning, they woke up feeling slightly dizzy and their vital signs were measured at 97% oxygen saturation, blood pressure 107/65, and heart rate 76.
I am unsure if it is appropriate for them to receive the second dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine tomorrow.
Thank you!
Zheng Jianying, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/09/14
Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine
Dear Ms.
Cheng:
1.
According to the data published by our Centers for Disease Control, the contraindications for the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine include a history of severe allergic reactions to vaccine components, previous severe allergic reactions after receiving this vaccine, or a history of thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome.
2.
The precautions for vaccination are as follows:
a.
Individuals with fever or those currently suffering from moderate to severe acute illness should wait until their condition stabilizes before vaccination.
b.
Individuals with a history of thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome or heparin-induced thrombocytopenia should avoid vaccination.
c.
It is recommended to have an interval of at least 14 days between the administration of this vaccine and other vaccines.
d.
Individuals with compromised immune function, including those receiving immunosuppressive therapy, may have a diminished immune response to the vaccine.
e.
To manage the extremely rare occurrence of immediate severe allergic reactions post-vaccination, individuals should rest and be observed for 15 minutes at the vaccination site or nearby.
After leaving, they should self-monitor for an additional 15 minutes.
However, individuals who have previously experienced acute allergic reactions due to vaccination or any injectable treatment should remain under observation for at least 30 minutes post-vaccination.
f.
Individuals using antiplatelet or anticoagulant medications or those with coagulation disorders should apply pressure to the injection site for at least 2 minutes post-injection and monitor for any bleeding or hematoma.
3.
Regarding the adult who mentioned, "...I had a car accident in my youth that injured my head, and I occasionally experience headaches while sleeping at night (less frequently in the morning)..." Since there are new symptoms, please take the adult to your family physician or attending physician for evaluation to clarify whether a new condition is developing or if it is merely a manifestation of a pre-existing condition.
Further decisions should be made based on this assessment!
Reply Date: 2021/09/14
More Info
When considering whether a senior with a history of head trauma should receive the second dose of the AstraZeneca (AZ) vaccine, several factors must be taken into account. The primary concern is the individual's current health status and any underlying conditions that may affect their ability to tolerate the vaccine.
Firstly, it is important to note that the AZ vaccine, like other COVID-19 vaccines, has specific contraindications and precautions. According to health authorities, individuals with a history of severe allergic reactions to vaccine components or those who have experienced severe adverse reactions to previous doses of the vaccine should avoid further doses. Additionally, individuals who have a history of thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome (TTS) should also refrain from receiving the vaccine.
In the case of the senior in question, the recent symptoms of headaches and dizziness raise some concerns. While mild headaches and occasional dizziness can be common and may not necessarily indicate a serious condition, they warrant further evaluation, especially given the individual's history of head trauma. It is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider to assess whether these symptoms are indicative of a new or worsening condition that could complicate the vaccination process.
The vital signs provided—blood oxygen saturation at 97%, blood pressure at 107/65 mmHg, and a heart rate of 76 bpm—are within acceptable ranges. However, the presence of headaches and dizziness suggests that a thorough medical evaluation is necessary before proceeding with vaccination. A healthcare provider may recommend imaging studies or other diagnostic tests to rule out any serious underlying issues related to the head trauma.
Moreover, it is crucial to consider the timing of vaccination. The benefits of receiving the second dose of the AZ vaccine include enhanced immunity against COVID-19, particularly against severe illness and hospitalization. However, if the individual is experiencing significant health issues, it may be prudent to delay vaccination until their condition stabilizes.
In summary, while the AZ vaccine is generally safe for seniors, the specific health status of the individual in question must be carefully evaluated. It is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide personalized advice based on a comprehensive assessment of the senior's medical history, current symptoms, and overall health. If the healthcare provider deems it safe to proceed with vaccination, they may also provide guidance on managing any potential side effects or reactions post-vaccination. If there are any doubts or concerns, it is always better to err on the side of caution and prioritize the individual's health and safety.
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