According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC, the best way to prevent flu infections is to get vaccinated each year. Yearly vaccinations are recommended as the formula changes each year in anticipation of newly developed strains of influenza virus. Flu vaccines, available as an injection or as a nasal spray, are considered safe and recommended for most patients. The vaccines are not for everyone, however, and there are a few risks associated with their use.
Allergic Reactions
Allergic reactions to the influenza vaccine are rare, according to the CDC. The signs of a reaction include difficulty breathing, hoarseness, wheezing, hives, rapid heartbeat, paleness and dizziness. These reactions occur within a few minutes to an hour after vaccination. Anyone who has had an allergic reaction to flu vaccines in the past should not receive the current year's vaccine without approval and monitoring from their physician.
Patients with Egg Allergies
Patients with egg allergies have a significant risk of reaction related to the body's intolerance of egg protein. These patients should not receive influenza vaccine. The American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology reports that flu vaccines may contain egg proteins which could trigger an allergic reaction.
Guillain-Barré Syndrome
Guillain-Barré syndrome is an extremely rare side effect of flu vaccine, affecting only one in approximately 1 million recipients of the flu vaccine. Sympoms of Guillain-Barré include fever, nerve damage and muscle weakness.
