Millions of vaccinations are given every year in the United States; allergic reactions from these vaccines are extremely rare. However, some people with certain food allergies may be at higher risk for allergic reactions as a result of vaccines containing certain food proteins. Many routine immunizations contain traces of egg protein or other food ingredients. As a result, there is the possibility that a person with food allergies will experience a severe allergic reaction as a result of receiving a vaccination.

Learn more:

• Basics of Food Allergies and Vaccines
• H1N1 Vaccine and Egg Allergy
• Vaccine Allergy Desensitization

The swine flu is front page news on a daily basis. And now that the swine flu vaccine is available, there seems to be a huge demand for the vaccine, but also concerns from some people that the vaccine may not be completely safe. Do you intend to receive, or have your children receive, the swine flu vaccine? Would you want to receive the nasal form, shot form, either one or neither one? Share your opinion, and read about others' thoughts.

The swine flu is here, and more and more people are becoming infected. It appears that people, especially children, with asthma are at higher risk for complications from the flu. The new swine flu vaccine, in both injected and nasal forms, are becoming available nationwide. Learn how swine flu can be prevented and treated, and what to do about the flu if you have asthma.

Learn more:

• Swine Flu Prevention
• Swine Flu Treatment
• Swine Flu Vaccine and Egg Allergy

Later this month, our little ones will be out trick-or-treating. Many of these young children suffer from various allergies/asthma that could flare up as a result of food allergies, exposure to cold air, or from latex containing costumes. If your child has a severe food allergy, especially to nuts, don't allow them to eat any treats until you've examined them. Consider banning any chocolate and home-made treats which may contain nuts and other hidden ingredients. If you know food-allergic kids on your street, consider handing out non-food items such as stickers, pencils and quarters.

Learn more:

• Halloween Food Allergies
• Latex Allergy from Halloween Costumes
• Asthma from Cold Air on Halloween Night