UK regulators have advised that individuals with a history of significant allergic reactions should not receive the Pfizer/BioNTech Covid-19 vaccine. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) issued the guidance after two NHS workers experienced allergic reactions on Tuesday, the first day of the UK rollout.
The two individuals, who have a history of serious allergies and carry adrenaline pens, suffered an anaphylactoid reaction shortly after vaccination. This type of reaction involves symptoms such as skin rash, breathlessness, and a potential drop in blood pressure, but is distinct from the more severe anaphylaxis. Both have since recovered after treatment.
Professor Stephen Powis, medical director for the NHS in England, confirmed the individuals were recovering well and described the precautionary measure as standard for new vaccines. Dr June Raine, head of the MHRA, stated that the step was taken in light of this experience, noting that such reactions, while uncommon, can occur with other vaccines like the annual flu jab.
Several thousand people were vaccinated on Tuesday across hospital clinics. Professor Peter Openshaw of Imperial College London praised the monitoring system for identifying the reactions quickly, allowing regulators to act promptly. He emphasised that no effective medicine is without side effects and that the risk-benefit balance must be considered, especially given that one in a thousand of the UK population has died from Covid-19 this year.
The MHRA's targeted advice applies to those with previous allergic reactions to medicines, food, or vaccines. For the overwhelming majority, the guidance does not change the vaccination programme. Meanwhile, the NHS announced that the rollout will expand to GP surgeries from next week, with doses initially delivered to around 200 practices, focusing on the over-80s. Dr Richard Vautrey of the British Medical Association said GPs are ready to deliver millions of doses per week, dependent on supply.
Separately, Professor Sarah Gilbert, a key developer of the Oxford University/AstraZeneca vaccine, downplayed concerns about its effectiveness in older people. Data published in The Lancet suggested uncertainty for the over-55s, but Gilbert noted that earlier trials showed no difference in immune response between younger adults and those over 70, supporting potential licensing for the elderly. The MHRA is currently reviewing the Oxford/AstraZeneca jab.
