3. Flu Shot & Allergic-Type Responses: Extremely Rare but Important
Most people won’t ever experience a severe allergic response — but because of the stakes, it’s a good idea to know what the warning signs are. According to the Ochsner Health blog, fewer than 1 in a million people experience serious allergic reactions to the flu vaccine.
What to watch for
- Hives, swelling of lips/eyes/throat, difficulty breathing.
- Rapid heartbeat, fainting, dizziness right after vaccination.
- If you have a severe egg allergy, you may be advised to get the vaccine in a medical setting.
Why it happens
Some vaccines are produced using eggs or other substrates and traces remain. For people with severe allergy history, the risk (though extremely low) is elevated.
What to do
If you’ve had a severe allergy in the past, check with your provider — some insurance providers cover “vaccination under supervision” in-clinic.
Stay at the clinic or vaccination site for the recommended 15–30 minutes post-injection.
If you experience breathing trouble, swelling or hives, call emergency services immediately.
