Charleston Allergy & Asthma offering allergy testing for COVID-19 vaccine

Press Release

Charleston Allergy & Asthma has announced it is currently offering allergy testing for the COVID-19 vaccine. Individuals who have concerns they might have a severe allergic reaction to any of the current vaccines available (Pfizer, Moderna or Johnson & Johnson), can request an appointment with one of the practice’s board-certified allergists for a consultation to see if an allergy test is recommended prior to receiving the vaccine.

“Due to the latest protocols developed by allergists/immunologists, we are thankful we are able to administer allergy tests specifically for the COVID-19 vaccine,” said Dr. Meredith Moore, board-certified allergist of Charleston Allergy & Asthma. “This technology allows us to provide a personal approach with each of our clients as we determine whether they should move forward with receiving the vaccine.”

The allergy practice, which has been serving the Lowcountry for more than 30 years, is administering the allergy tests by way of using both skin prick testing and intradermal testing to determine whether patients are allergic to core ingredients found in the vaccines.

“At this time, it is not known which COVID-19 vaccine components are causing allergic reactions but we are able to test patients for allergies to various components including polyethylene glycol, polysorbate 20 and polysorbate 80 to determine if they will have an anaphylactic reaction,” said Dr. Moore.

While severe allergic reactions to the vaccine have not been common, Charleston Allergy & Asthma has cautioned its patients with a history of severe reactions to vaccines to proceed with caution and get an allergy test before following through with receiving the vaccine.

“While we are encouraging the general public to get the COVID-19 vaccine if they are eligible, we want to ensure those with a history of severe allergic reactions do their part in getting tested before risking a dangerous reaction,” said Dr. Moore.

“There are common reactions that many will experience with the vaccine, however, not every side effect is considered an allergic reaction,” said Dr. Moore. “Reactions such as headache, tiredness, dizziness, chills, fever, nausea and muscle aches are all natural signs that the vaccine is working with an individual’s immune system as it should. Our main concern is for patients to avoid anaphylaxis.”

Individuals interested in learning more about allergy testing for the COVID-19 vaccine can request an appointment with a board-certified allergist at one of Charleston Allergy & Asthma’s three Lowcountry locations (Mount Pleasant, Summerville or West Ashley). To learn more about the allergy practice, visit CharlestonAllergy.com.

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