Measles Immunization in Children With Clinical Reactions to Egg Protein

Abstract

Thirty-five egg-sensitive children who received measles immunization without adverse sequelae are described. Thirty-two of the children had a history of immediate hypersensitivity reactions to egg protein, including 22 who developed a generalized reaction after oral exposure to egg. There were also 3 highly allergic children, with immediate hypersensitivity reactions to other food, who, despite having never been exposed to egg, developed large skin prick test wheals to egg white. Measles vaccine was given to all children without prior vaccine skin testing. There were no adverse reactions. It is suggested that measles vaccine can be given to children with a history of generalized or localized urticaria/angioedema on exposure to egg protein without prior skin testing.