Durham, NC – Many people are allergic to something. Medical studies suggest that about 2% of Americans have allergies so severe that they can be fatal.
A Duke front-line doctor has that 2% and had to decide if he would bet on getting the COVID-19 vaccine.
“I have a history of anaphylaxis reactions, which are a serious allergy,” said Dr. Leonor Corsino, an adult endocrinologist at Duke University Hospital.
It did not receive its firing like most health officials during the first week of the launch of Pfizer.
“I was a little nervous to be honest,” she said.
However, her known history of severe allergy has not prevented her from participating in the global health initiative.
“I must say that my first dose went well. I didn’t have any major reactions, ”he said.
There are rare reports of side effects after the vaccine. Some health workers experienced shortness of breath, dizziness, and high heart rate. Since then, the CDC has set new guidelines.
Anyone with serious pre-vaccine reactions should talk to their doctor before getting vaccinated. Those who have a severe allergy to any of the ingredients included in Pfizer or Moderna intakes should skip the vaccine.
Corsino said everyone is monitored for up to 30 minutes after receiving the vaccine and that each vaccination site has medication available to treat an allergic reaction.
“I don’t want this to derail people from getting it,” he said. “My message is to do homework and make an informed decision if it’s right for you.”
And for Corsino, the benefits of the vaccine far outweighed the risks. As it prepares for its second dose next week, it encourages people to rely on science.