Concerns About Vaccine Allergies and Timing for Cervical Cancer Vaccine

Could you please provide information regarding whether it is suitable to receive the vaccine?

Hello, Doctor: I have a question.
When I was in middle school, I received the first dose of the hepatitis B vaccine, and shortly afterward, I was hospitalized for two weeks due to unexplained alternating high and low fevers and a rash.
Although the doctors at that time said they didn't know the cause, if I were truly allergic to the hepatitis B vaccine, is it likely that I could also be allergic to other inactivated vaccines? For example, I am currently hesitant about the COVID-19 vaccine and the HPV vaccine since I only received the flu vaccine once in middle school and have not received any other vaccines due to my fear of having another allergic reaction.

Additionally, I will be turning 27 next month, and I am considering getting the 9-valent HPV vaccine.
However, I read online that after turning 27, there is no compensation for vaccine-related injuries.
If I receive the vaccine while I am still 26 in January and experience an adverse reaction after the second dose, will the assessment for compensation be based on my age at the time of the reaction or my age when I received the first dose? I apologize for these questions, as I am unsure which department to ask, and I hope I am reaching the right place.
Thank you!

A, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/01/09

Dr. Liao Yaopan reply Family Medicine

The situation described earlier does not allow us to infer whether you have had an allergic reaction or adverse effects to the hepatitis B vaccine, nor can it be extended to determine if you have allergies to other vaccines.
Regarding drug injury compensation, please refer to the official website of the Taiwan Drug Relief Foundation (https://www.tdrf.org.tw/) for explanations on applicable scope and conditions, as there are relevant regulations available for reference.
Online consultations are not equivalent to in-person medical visits and cannot provide diagnoses or treatment recommendations.
Changhua Hospital cares about your well-being.

Reply Date: 2022/01/09

More Info

When it comes to the concerns about vaccine allergies and the timing for the cervical cancer vaccine, it's important to address both your history with vaccines and the specifics of the HPV vaccine, particularly Gardasil 9, which you are considering.

Firstly, regarding your past experience with the hepatitis B vaccine, it is understandable to be cautious. Vaccine allergies can occur, but they are relatively rare. The symptoms you experienced—intermittent fever and rash—could have been due to a variety of factors, not necessarily an allergic reaction to the vaccine. Allergic reactions typically manifest as hives, swelling, or difficulty breathing shortly after vaccination. If you had a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis), it would be more concerning for future vaccinations. However, if your reaction was mild and not clearly linked to the vaccine, it may not indicate a predisposition to allergies from other vaccines.

In general, if you have concerns about allergies, it is advisable to consult with an allergist or your primary care physician. They can evaluate your medical history and may recommend allergy testing to determine if you have specific sensitivities. This is particularly relevant as you consider the COVID-19 vaccine and the HPV vaccine. Both vaccines are inactivated or non-live vaccines, which typically have a lower risk of allergic reactions compared to live vaccines.

Now, regarding the timing of the HPV vaccine, you mentioned that you are approaching your 27th birthday and are concerned about the implications of receiving the vaccine just before this age threshold. The HPV vaccine is recommended for individuals up to age 26, but it can still be administered to those aged 27 and older. However, the effectiveness of the vaccine may be less pronounced in older individuals, as the immune response can vary based on age and prior exposure to HPV.

As for your question about adverse reactions and the age at which you receive the vaccine, the regulations regarding vaccine injury compensation typically consider the age at which the vaccine was administered. Therefore, if you receive the first dose before turning 27, you would be eligible for compensation related to that dose, even if subsequent doses are administered after your birthday. It is crucial to keep all documentation of your vaccinations and any adverse reactions you may experience.

In conclusion, while your concerns about allergies and the timing of the HPV vaccine are valid, it is essential to consult with healthcare professionals who can provide personalized advice based on your medical history. If you decide to proceed with the Gardasil 9 vaccine, be sure to monitor for any unusual symptoms after vaccination and report them to your healthcare provider. Vaccination is a critical step in preventing cervical cancer, and understanding your health history will help you make informed decisions.

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