Is BNT Vaccine Safe for My Son with a History of Allergic Purpura?

Is it suitable for children who have a history of allergic purpura to receive the BNT vaccine?

My son is currently in the first year of junior high school and just turned thirteen.
He experienced allergic purpura at the age of six, which has not recurred since then.
The diagnosing physician mentioned that the cause of this condition is unknown.
I have searched for information online but haven't found satisfactory answers.
I can only speculate that it might have been triggered by a previous vaccination, as he did not receive any other vaccines (such as the flu vaccine) during his six years in elementary school and was fortunate not to contract any of those illnesses.
Over the past two years, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, he has not received any vaccinations.
However, given the recent severity of the COVID-19 situation, I would like to inquire whether it would be appropriate for my son to receive the BNT vaccine or any other brand of vaccine.
Thank you.

Hsu, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/05/29

Dr. Xiao Kaiwen reply Pediatrics

Allergic purpura is an autoimmune vasculitis characterized by inflammation of the blood vessels.
The cause of the production of autoimmune antibodies is unknown, but it is speculated that it may be triggered by previous viral infections.
However, if there have been no recurrences for a long time and the current health status is normal, and there have been no "significant" side effects from previous vaccinations, it should be safe to receive the mRNA vaccine BNT.

Reply Date: 2022/05/29

More Info

When considering the safety of the BNT (Pfizer-BioNTech) vaccine for your son, who has a history of allergic purpura, it is essential to take a comprehensive approach. Allergic purpura, also known as IgA vasculitis or Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP), is a small-vessel vasculitis that can cause skin rashes, joint pain, abdominal pain, and kidney issues. While the exact cause of this condition is often unclear, it can sometimes be triggered by infections or certain medications.

In general, vaccines, including the BNT vaccine, are considered safe for most individuals, including those with a history of allergic conditions. The BNT vaccine has undergone extensive clinical trials and has been shown to be effective in preventing COVID-19, particularly severe illness and hospitalization. The vaccine works by stimulating the immune system to recognize and fight the virus, which is crucial in the context of the ongoing pandemic.

For your son, it is important to consider a few key points:
1. Consultation with a Healthcare Provider: Before proceeding with vaccination, it is advisable to consult with your son's healthcare provider or a pediatrician. They can assess his medical history, including the details of his allergic purpura, and provide personalized recommendations based on his current health status.

2. Monitoring for Allergic Reactions: While the BNT vaccine is generally safe, individuals with a history of allergic reactions should be monitored for any potential allergic responses post-vaccination. This is particularly relevant if there is a known allergy to any components of the vaccine. Most allergic reactions to vaccines are mild, such as localized swelling or redness at the injection site, but severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) are rare.

3. Timing of Vaccination: Given that your son has not received any vaccines in the past two years, it is crucial to ensure that he is up to date with all recommended vaccinations, including the COVID-19 vaccine. The BNT vaccine can be administered to children aged 5 and older, and it is important to follow the recommended dosing schedule.

4. Potential Risks vs. Benefits: The benefits of vaccination against COVID-19, especially given the current pandemic situation, generally outweigh the risks for most children, including those with a history of allergic purpura. Vaccination can significantly reduce the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and long-term complications associated with COVID-19.

5. Post-Vaccination Care: After vaccination, it is advisable to observe your son for any immediate reactions for at least 15-30 minutes at the vaccination site. If he experiences any unusual symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or a rapid heartbeat, seek medical attention immediately.

In summary, while your son's history of allergic purpura may raise some concerns, the BNT vaccine is generally safe for children with similar medical histories. It is crucial to have an open discussion with a healthcare provider to ensure that all factors are considered before making a decision. Vaccination is a key tool in protecting against COVID-19, and with proper monitoring and care, your son can safely receive the vaccine.

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