Anaphylactic reactions to vaccines are extremely rare but have the potential to
be fatal. Between 1997 and 2003, there were 130 reports to the Medicines and
Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) of anaphylaxis or
anaphylactic-type reactions following immunisation (excluding the meningitis
C campaign), although no deaths as a result of the reaction were reported. In
that time, around 117 million doses of all vaccines were supplied to hospitals
and GPs. This rate (approximately one per million vaccine doses) is similar to
that reported from other countries (Bohlke et al., 2003; Canadian Medical
Association, 2002).
Onset of anaphylaxis is rapid, typically within minutes, and its clinical course
is unpredictable with variable severity and clinical features.
Due to the unpredictable nature of anaphylactic reactions it is not possible to define a
particular time period over which all individuals should be observed following
immunisation to ensure they do not develop anaphylaxis.
All health professionals responsible for immunisation must be familiar with
techniques for resuscitation of a patient with anaphylaxis to prevent disability
and loss of life. A protocol for the management of anaphylaxis and an
anaphylaxis pack must always be available whenever vaccines are given.
Because of the possibility of delayed reactions, individuals who have had an
anaphylactic reaction should be sent to hospital, even though they may appear
to have made a full recovery.
Give high flow oxygen therapy as soon as oxygen is available. Rescuers
should manage the airway according to their level of training and equipment
available
