UK reports severe allergic reactions to COVID vaccine

The United Kingdom National Health Service (NHS) has reported two cases of anaphylactoid reactions (a severe allergic response) to the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine given Tuesday.

Both individuals, identified as NHS employees, have a strong history of allergic reactions and carry an epi-pen. They developed these symptoms shortly after being injected with the vaccine but are recovering.

The incident is currently under investigation to discover what prompted the reaction.

Medicines and Healthcare Regulatory Agency (MHRA) reported the reactions to Pfizer and presented the cases to UK politicians Wednesday.

Professor Stephen Powis, NHS National Medical Director commented, “As is common with new vaccines the MHRA have advised on a precautionary basis that people with a significant history of allergic reactions do not receive this vaccination after two people with a history of significant allergic reactions responded adversely yesterday.”