Can I Get The COVID-19 Vaccine If I Have Allergies?

Allergies are a common concern among many. While it usually shows up in a mild form, it can also be severe in some cases. Although the COVID-19 vaccine is finally here, the limited data about the vaccination drive has left many with scepticism. This is especially true for those who have pre-existing conditions like allergies. 

Things to Consider Before Vaccination If You Have Allergies

If you are allergies, you might want to consider the following things before you decide to get vaccinated:

1. Consult a Doctor

   First and foremost, consult a doctor before you decide to get the COVID-19 vaccine. It is advisable to contact the doctor to whom you usually go for your allergies. They will be able to adequately guide you after observing your allergies and their symptoms, effects etc. In general, there is no harm in taking the vaccine even if you have allergies. However, it is better to get a nod from a registered medical practitioner.

2. Look Up the Ingredients of the Vaccine

   At present, there are two vaccines that are being given out in India, the Covaxin from Bharat Biotech and the Covishield from the Serum Institute of India. A third vaccine is also on the way, the Sputnik V. Look up the ingredients of the vaccines and see if you are allergic to any of them. If you are confused about any of them, make sure to immediately seek clarification. Even if the allergic reaction might be mild, be sure before you get vaccinated.  

3. Allergic to Other Vaccines

   If you have experience of allergic reactions to previous vaccines that you might have taken for other purposes, you might want to pause before the COVID-19 vaccine. Consult your doctor and mention your previous experiences and the vaccines you have taken. Only if you are given the go-ahead by your doctor, take the COVID-19 vaccine.

COVID-19 Vaccine And Allergic Reactions

Here are some things that you should keep in mind, regarding the COVID-19 vaccine and allergic reactions:

• Mild allergy-like reactions like fever are common after the first dose of the vaccine. It indicates that your immune system is actively working with the vaccine. However, if you have severe symptoms like breathlessness, immediately consult your doctor. It might not be safe for you to take the second dose of the vaccine.
• Allergic reactions like fever, sore throat, cough and cold etc., are very similar to the symptoms of COVID-19. If you have such signs, it is advisable to get a COVID-19 test done. This is also because if you test positive, you will not be able to take the COVID-19 vaccine till 90 days from when your symptoms first appear. 

Also Read: Home Remedies For Increasing Immunity During Pandemic

Can I Take The COVID-19 Vaccine If I Have Fever Or Sore Throat?

Conclusion

With that being said, there has been no evidence of people with regular or mild allergic reactions to things other than vaccines, being harmed by the COVID-19 vaccine. Therefore, you too might be safe from taking it. This is a time of great fear and stress and rightly so, given the devastation that the pandemic has caused. It is important to always be alert and careful regarding any signs that you show. Although unnecessary panic is definitely not advised, you should also treat your allergic reactions with more importance. 

You May Also Read: Covid-19 Health Insurance

Disclaimer: This article is issued in the general public interest and meant for general information purposes only. Readers are advised not to rely on the contents of the article as conclusive in nature and should research further or consult an expert in this regard.