The seasonal flu, or seasonal influenza, is a virus that attacks the respiratory system and causes fever, chills, night sweats, cough, nasal congestion and body aches. Young, healthy individuals are less likely to experience the severe complications of the flu when compared to children, older adults or those with weakened immune systems. These complications include ear infections, sinus infection, bronchitis, pneumonia, and brain infection, according to the Mayo Clinic. Fortunately, those at high risk can receive the flu vaccine to prevent infection and the associated complications. However, there are contraindications, or reasons why you should not get the flu vaccine.
Egg Allergy
Egg protein is an ingredient in the flu vaccine. Therefore, do not take this vaccine if you are allergic to eggs, according to Drugs.com. This could result in a severe allergic reaction that can result in difficulty breathing. Always alert your doctor if you have an egg allergy before taking the flu vaccine.
Allergies to Inactive Ingredients
Inactive ingredients, or excipients, are substances added to the flu vaccine to help with ease of use, or to support the main ingredient. You should not take the flu vaccine if you are allergic to any of the inactive ingredients. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), these include formaldehyde or formalin, gentamicin, hydrocortisone, octoxynol-10, alpha-Tocopheryl hydrogen succinate, polysorbate 80, sodium deoxycholate, sodium Phosphate and thimerosal.
Previous Guillain-Barre Syndrome
You should not take the flu vaccine if you have previously been infected with Guillain-Barre Syndrome, according to Drugs.com. The flu vaccine may cause a recurrence of Guillain-Barre Syndrome symptoms. Always alert your doctor of previous medical conditions before taking the flu vaccine.
