Can there be medical contraindications for receiving the COVID-19 immunization?
COVID-19 Vaccination: Understanding Medical Exemptions
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that most people ages 18 and older receive the COVID-19 vaccine, with some exceptions for specific medical conditions.
Underlying medical conditions, such as pregnancy and other conditions, are not a reason to avoid the COVID-19 vaccine, according to the CDC. However, people who have had a mild to moderate allergic reaction to a previous COVID-19 vaccine should discuss the risks and benefits with a doctor.
For those with severe allergies, a history of anaphylaxis to a previous dose of the vaccine or to a vaccine component is a contraindication, meaning a person should not receive the vaccine in these cases. People with a history of severe allergies should consult with their healthcare provider to determine if they are eligible for alternative vaccines, such as Novavax, which contains a harmless copy of the spike protein and an adjuvant.
People who have had myocarditis or pericarditis within 3 weeks after a COVID-19 vaccination should typically not get another COVID-19 vaccine. However, those with a history of multisystem inflammatory syndrome should consider vaccination if it has been 90 days or longer since their symptoms went away.
People with autoimmune diseases should receive a COVID-19 vaccine in an age-appropriate dose. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends the COVID-19 vaccine for all children ages 6 months or older.
Those with serious underlying medical conditions, such as cancer or a history of cancer, can get the COVID-19 vaccine, but the vaccine may be less effective in some people. Research from 2022 suggests that the COVID-19 vaccine may help the body produce antibodies that appear in breast milk, which may help protect the nursing baby.
People who are pregnant or have recently been pregnant have a higher risk of complications from COVID-19, and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends vaccination for all pregnant people.
It's important to note that medical exemptions for COVID-19 vaccination are granted primarily for documented contraindications such as severe allergic reactions or immune system disorders, and occasionally for recent COVID-19 infection requiring temporary delay. To find out if a person is medically exempt, they should determine the specific entity they seek an exemption from, ask for a copy of its COVID-19 policy, and check whether they have a medical condition listed on the exemption list.
Beyond COVID-19 vaccine-specific exemptions, some institutions recognize exemptions for other vaccines (e.g., MMR, Varicella) when there are contraindicating medical conditions. Some workplaces or schools may offer a wider range of exemptions that extend beyond medical reasons, including exceptions for religious or personal beliefs.
The vaccine provides significant protection that can save a person's life, and people who have anxiety about the vaccine should talk with a healthcare professional they trust and ask about research relevant to them and their health. It's important to remember that getting the COVID-19 vaccine is a safer and more reliable way to build protection, even after a COVID-19 infection. People who have a current acute illness should delay vaccination until their symptoms go away.
In summary, medical exemptions for COVID-19 vaccination are granted primarily for documented contraindications such as severe allergic reactions or immune system disorders, and occasionally for recent COVID-19 infection requiring temporary delay. Nonmedical exemptions (religious or personal belief) are also sometimes allowed but are controversial and are being increasingly restricted.
- People with a history of pericarditis should typically not get another COVID-19 vaccine due to potential complications.
- The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends the COVID-19 vaccine for all children ages 6 months or older, including those with immunocompromised health and wellness conditions.
- In some cases, people with a history of anaphylaxis might not be eligible for certain COVID-19 vaccines; these individuals should consult with their healthcare provider for alternative preventative measures.
- Science and medical research have shown that the COVID-19 vaccine can help produce antibodies in breast milk, offering potential protection for nursing babies.
- To ensure optimal health-and-wellness, individuals who have anxiety about the COVID-19 vaccine should discuss their concerns with a trusted healthcare professional, reviewing relevant research to help make an informed decision about immunizations/vaccines.
