Annual seasonal influenza vaccination remains the most effective means of protection against contracting influenza illness and preventing spread of the disease. It is estimated that more than 23,000 deaths occur each year in the United States because of influenza, including approximately 124 children. Egg-allergic children are a subgroup who may be at higher risk for influenza-related complications. In this episode we are joined by Matt Greenhawt, MD to review the incidence, suspected epidemiology and current policy related to allergic reactions to the influenza vaccine and steps for avoiding potential adverse reactions.

Dr. Greenhawt is the Director of the Food Challenge and Research Unit at Children’s Hospital Colorado and Associate Professor of Pediatrics, Section of Allergy & Immunology at the University of Colorado School of Medicine.