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Children with Suspected Allergic Reactions Can Receive Second Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine Dose Safely

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Children as young as six months can safely receive a second dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccine, even after a suspected allergic reaction or a suspected allergy to polyethylene glycol (PEG) or polysorbate, according to a new study published in an official journal of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI). Researchers evaluated nine children with suspected allergic reactions to the first dose of the vaccine, and all nine were able to receive the second dose without significant symptoms. The study suggests that children with a history of PEG or polysorbate allergy can also safely receive the vaccine.

Key Takeaways:

  • Children as young as six months can safely receive a second dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccine after a suspected allergic reaction to the first dose.
  • Nine children were evaluated after demonstrating an allergic reaction to the first dose of the vaccine, and all nine received the second dose without significant symptoms.
  • Three children met the criteria for anaphylaxis while six reported less severe reactions.
  • Eight of the nine children received the second dose of the vaccine without any pre-medications, and all nine received the second dose with minimal or no symptoms.
  • Four children with histories of potential PEG/polysorbate reactions were also evaluated, and all were able to tolerate polyethylene glycol 3350 laxative without serious issues.
  • The study suggests that children with a history of PEG or polysorbate allergy can also safely receive the vaccine.
  • The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI) provides guidance on safe administration of COVID-19 vaccines for children with allergic reactions.

Statistics:

  • 9 children were evaluated after demonstrating an allergic reaction to the first dose of the vaccine.
  • 8 of the 9 children received the second dose of the vaccine without any pre-medications.
  • 3 children met the criteria for anaphylaxis, while 6 reported less severe reactions.
  • 4 children with histories of potential PEG/polysorbate reactions were also evaluated.
  • 3 children elected to receive the Pfizer-BioNTech SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccine and were able to tolerate their first and second doses without experiencing any allergic symptoms.

Sources:

  • Source: The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAII)
  • Source: (JACI: In Practice), an official journal of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI)

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