Flublok is a new flu vaccine completely egg-free and approved by FDA. It will be offered to adults with egg allergies this flu season.
MIAMI, FL – June 2013 – There is some good news for people that are allergic to egg and have not been able to receive the flu vaccine in the past. Flublok (RIV3) is a new influenza vaccine that has been added to the 2013-2014 flu recommendations to provide an immunization option for people with a history of allergic reactions to eggs.
Egg Allergy is frequent in the general population, more in children than adults. When flu season comes, it is always a big concern for patients with egg allergy and for doctors to decide whether or not to get the flu vaccine.
According to the ACAAI, people with egg allergy could have a reaction when given the flu vaccine because the vaccine may contain some amount of egg protein. Nevertheless, experienced physicians may administer the flu vaccine under certain conditions. If the flu vaccine is warranted in patients with severe egg allergies, it can be administered in the office of an allergy specialist who can administer emergency treatment if necessary.
The new RIV3 vaccine is made with cell technology, which is used for other kinds of vaccines. Protein Sciences Corp licensed it in January. For the upcoming flu season, RIV3 can be given to adults between the ages of 18 to 49 with a history of egg allergies.
“It is very promising to know that there is now a vaccine made with cell technology that can be used in patients with severe egg allergy without the risk of developing an allergic reaction. So far, this vaccine is licensed only for adults but we hope it will also be available for children in the near future,” said Dr. Adriana Bonansea-Frances of Florida Center For Allergy & Asthma Care.
About Florida Center For Allergy & Asthma Care
Florida Center For Allergy & Asthma Care has been in business for more than 38 years and has board certified physicians with extensive experience in treating both adults and children. FCAAC has 18 centers throughout South Florida, serving communities in Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties. The Centers specialize in the testing and treatment of adults and children who suffer from allergies, asthma and other disorders of the immune system. Among the most common allergies treated are allergic skin diseases, food, drug and pet allergies. Florida Center For Allergy & Asthma Care Research conducts clinical trials on new medications. The goal of the FCAAC team is to provide professional and quality care resulting in total patient satisfaction.
Editor’s Note: If you would be interested in interviewing Dr. Frances please let us know.
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