Article: Flu Shots and Allergy

Q. My doctor doesn't want to give me a flu shot because 15 years ago I developed an allergy to contact lens solutions containing thimerosal. Should I avoid flu shots from now on? Also, I'm planning a trip abroad, and will be getting some other vaccinations. Will this be a problem for me? Is there anything else I can do to prevent the flu? A. Thimerosal is a preservative found in several kinds of medicines, including some eye drops as well as flu shots. However, most people who are allergic to thimerosal don't develop any serious problems after getting a flu shot.

Because flu shots contain trace amounts of egg protein, people with severe allergies to eggs can also react to flu ...

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