For those with an allergy to eggs, the flu shot becomes off limits. Grown in eggs, flu vaccine can contain egg protein, a potential cause of an allergic reaction. The American College of Asthma, Allergies and Immunology estimates that 1.6 percent of children have an allergy to eggs. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that those with an egg allergy and those at high risk for influenza complications should take Tamiflu if exposed to the virus. Tamiflu can prevent or shorten the duration of influenza if taken within the appropriate time frame.
Tamiflu
Tamiflu stops the flu virus from spreading in the body. Also known as oseltamivir, this drug falls in a group of medicines known as neuraminidase inhibitors. Tamiflu does the most good when taken within 48 hours of the start of symptoms. Tamiflu also can prevent flu in those that have been exposed. In those already sick with flu, this drug can shorten the time that symptoms last, but may not prevent secondary bacterial infections.
Egg Allergy
Some people have a higher risk of complications from influenza. The very young, very old, pregnant women and immune-compromised individuals with an egg allergy sometimes can receive the flu shot. Only an experienced doctor can determine the risks and benefits after a skin test using the flu vaccine. If the doctor determines that a flu vaccine carries too much risk, use of Tamiflu can prevent the illness. According to the CDC, antiviral medications carry a 70 to 90 percent success rate in preventing flu.
Tamiflu Side Effects
Tamiflu used as a preventative measure needs careful consideration as the drug does have some side effects. These include nausea, vomiting, stomach ache, diarrhea or headache. Either the flu itself or possibly Tamiflu can cause confusion, seizures and abnormal behavior. Children and adolescents need extra observation for unusual behavior. These behavior problems only occur rarely. Tamiflu can cause allergic reactions such as hives, swelling of the face or tongue and itching. Notify the doctor right away if any side effects occur.
Considerations
Tamiflu cannot stop patients from passing the flu to someone else. If flu exposure occurs wash your hands frequently, and take precautions to prevent the spread of the virus. To prevent influenza, use Tamiflu every day throughout flu exposure. If more than two days pass without treatment since the exposure, Tamiflu might not work. Use of Tamiflu as a preventative should not occur as a matter of course because of the risk of the virus becoming resistant to the drug.
