What is anaphylaxis?

Anaphylaxis (pronounced "anna-fil-axis") is a rare but serious whole-body allergic reaction that may be life-threatening. It happens when the immune system overreacts to a substance that a person is allergic to, such as a food, medication, or vaccine. Anaphylaxis can happen in response to any medication, including the H1N1 vaccine.

How common is it, and who is at risk?

Anaphylaxis is quite rare. With the H1N1 vaccine, the risk is about 1 in 300,000. This risk is similar to that for other vaccines.

While anaphylaxis may affect anyone who gets the H1N1 vaccine, you are at a much greater risk if you are allergic to eggs, egg products, chicken proteins, or any ingredients of the vaccine (check with your doctor or pharmacist for details). If you have any of these allergies, tell your doctor and ask if it's safe for you to have the vaccine.

What is a typical reaction like?

Anaphylaxis happens quickly. A typical anaphylactic reaction starts within seconds to minutes after receiving the vaccine. Symptoms include:

  • throat and airways closing up
  • trouble breathing
  • itchy skin rash
  • swelling of the face or throat
  • fainting or lightheadedness
  • heart palpitations (a heartbeat that you can feel)
  • feeling anxious or confused

What should I do if I think I'm having a reaction?

Call 9-1-1. If you're still in the clinic, get a doctor or nurse immediately. An anaphylactic reaction is a medical emergency that must be treated right away. The usual treatment is an injection of epinephrine (the active ingredient in an Epi-Pen® and Twinject™). You may also need other medications, oxygen, and medical procedures to open your airways.

Should I be concerned? What can I do to protect myself?

Be aware of the risk of an anaphylactic reaction, but don't panic. Health professionals have been advised not to use the lot of vaccine that caused an increased number of anaphylaxis cases. The risk of anaphylaxis with the vaccine is very low, and there are things you can do to protect yourself. Your doctor or nurse will recommend that you remain in the doctor's office, hospital, or clinic for at least 15 minutes so that they can monitor you for signs of a reaction. If you are going to have a reaction, this is when it's most likely to occur. The place where you receive your vaccine will be equipped with the medical supplies and equipment needed to manage an anaphylactic reaction.

Trish Rawn, PharmD