Allergic Reactions – Moderna Paused in California

Angie SzumlinskiHealth, News

After several people had apparent allergic reactions at one California clinic, state health officials on Sunday told providers across the state to pause administering doses from one COVID-19 vaccine lot that arrived from Moderna. The move, made “out of an extreme abundance of caution” means that 330,000 doses distributed to 287 providers across the state can’t be used amid an already slow vaccine rollout.

Officials said that fewer than 10 people needed medical attention over the span of 24 hours but didn’t clarify what their allergic reactions were. “All appeared to be experiencing a possible severe allergic reaction during the standard observation period, a type of adverse event that the CDC reports some people have experienced when receiving a COVID-19 vaccine” state health officials said.

Health officials reminded residents that the risk of a serious adverse reaction to the COVID-19 vaccine is very small and the expected rate of anaphylaxis is about 1 in 100,000. It is unfortunate that this batch of vaccine that is sorely needed has raised some questions and concerns. Remember, vaccines are safe, and some reactions are expected. Don’t let it stop you; get vaccinated, stay well, and keep your community safe!

Stay the course, mask up, and stay tuned!