The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention today reported 21 cases of anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction, among the nearly 1.9 million people who received a first dose of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine between Dec. 14 and 23. That’s an estimated 11.1 cases per 1 million doses. While higher than the 1.3 cases per 1 million doses associated with flu vaccine, “I want to assure you that this is still a rare outcome,” said Nancy Messonnier, M.D., director of CDC’s National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases.

About 71% of the 21 cases associated with the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine occurred within 15 minutes of vaccination. Seventeen of the individuals had a documented history of allergies or allergic reactions, and all but two cases were treated with epinephrine. Four patients were hospitalized, 17 were treated in an emergency department and all recovered, officials said.

One case of anaphylaxis was reported among more than 224,000 people who received a first dose of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine over the same period, the report notes. Confirmed anaphylaxis cases for both vaccines currently total 29, officials said. CDC plans to release more information as it becomes available.

“Locations administering COVID-19 vaccines should adhere to CDC guidance for use of COVID-19 vaccines, including screening recipients for contraindications and precautions, having the necessary supplies available to manage anaphylaxis, implementing the recommended post-vaccination observation periods, and immediately treating suspected cases of anaphylaxis with intramuscular injection of epinephrine,” the report notes.

Related News Articles

Headline
The Senate Finance Committee Feb. 4 voted 14-13 to advance Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s nomination for secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services. A…
Headline
Respiratory illness activity remains high across the country, according to the latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Seasonal flu…
Headline
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration Jan. 13 announced that it terminated efforts to establish a final COVID-19 safety standard to protect workers…
Headline
The Department of Health and Human Services Dec. 10 amended the Public Readiness and Emergency Preparedness Act declaration for COVID-19, extending liability…
Headline
AHA's latest social media toolkit for encouraging vaccination against the flu and COVID-19 provides fall-themed social media posts and graphics. Download the…
Headline
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention last week endorsed a recommendation for people aged 65 and older and for immunocompromised individuals to…