Allergies and vaccination: a myth demystified

Background Vaccinations are among the commonest and most successful medical measures. Due to the drop in the incidence of vaccine-preventable diseases, rare side effects such as allergic reactions are coming more to the fore. In addition, vaccinations are often associated with the rising prevalence of allergic sensitization and allergic disease. The myth that “vaccinations cause allergies” is being circulated. This article presents the available evidence on the effect of vaccinations on the prevalence of atopic manifestations (sensitization, asthma, allergic rhinitis, food allergy) and atopic dermatitis. Based on position papers, recommendations are given on the approach to vaccinations in children with allergic disease and/or atopic dermatitis as well as on the approach in patients with anaphylactic reactions to vaccines. Methods A literature search in PubMed and in the reference lists of the identified articles was conducted. Results There is no evidence that vaccinations increase the risk of specific allergic sensitization or the manifestation of allergic diseases either in high-risk patients (atopy, positive family history) or in patients with no family history of atopy. Vaccinations do not cause allergies! According to experts, atopic children can be vaccinated under standard conditions without a mandatory follow-up observation period. Allergy testing should be performed following allergic reactions to vaccines or vaccine components. Follow-up vaccinations after anaphylactic reactions to vaccines or vaccine components should be performed under monitoring conditions by physicians experienced in the recognition and treatment of anaphylactic reactions. Conclusion Standard vaccinations do not increase the risk for manifesting allergic disease or specific sensitization to environmental allergens. If individual protection is desired, and taking into account the particular risks and provisos, children with allergic disease and anaphylactic reactions to vaccines can also be vaccinated.