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Canadian Journal of Public Health = Revue Canadienne de Santé Publique logoLink to Canadian Journal of Public Health = Revue Canadienne de Santé Publique
. 2011 May 1;102(3):196–199. doi: 10.1007/BF03404895

Administration of the Adjuvanted pH1N1 Vaccine in Egg-allergic Children at High Risk for Influenza A/H1N1 Disease

Jane E SchulerCHEO 110,210,, W James King 110,210, Natalie L Dayneka 310, Lynn Rastelli 410, Evelyn Marquis 410, Zave Chad 110, Charles Hui 110,410
PMCID: PMC6973565  PMID: 21714318

Abstract

Background

In Canada, the pH1N1 influenza vaccine is recommended for children, particularly those less than 5 years of age or with chronic underlying disease. The pH1N1 vaccine, which contains residual allergenic egg white proteins, may pose a risk for vaccination of egg-allergic children.

Objective

To describe the outcome of pH1N1 influenza vaccine administration to egg-allergic children at risk for severe H1N1 disease.

Design/Method

Prospective observational cohort study. Children identified as at high risk for egg allergy and H1N1 influenza were vaccinated using a two-dose split protocol in a controlled medical setting. Children were given an initial test dose; if no reaction was noted, the remainder of the dose was administered and the children were followed for allergic reactions. Those who tolerated the split dose and required a second dose of vaccine were offered vaccination four weeks later as one injection.

Results

Sixty-two egg-allergic children considered at high risk for H1N1 disease received the adjuvanted pH1N1 vaccine. Egg allergy was diagnosed both clinically by an allergist and using skin and/or serum IgE testing. Within one hour of immunization, 2 children developed hives, 1 had a vasovagal response and 1 had a hypo-responsive episode. Fourteen children received the second H1N1 dose and 1 developed erythema and itching. There were no anaphylactic reactions.

Conclusion

Administration of the adjuvanted pH1N1 vaccine in egg-allergic children at risk for severe H1N1 influenza was safe when performed in a two-dose split protocol in a controlled medical setting.

Key words: Influenza A/H1N1, vaccine, child, allergy

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