The influenza vaccine is mandatory for all NEOMED employees this year, and NEOvations will once again perform the injections.
Kunal Amin, Pharm.D., R.Ph., the Vice President and director of clinical services for NEOvationsRx, said that in addition to the standard vaccines offered, NEOMED is working to obtain two egg-free versions for employees.
Despite these additional options, said Dr. Amin, the standard vaccine will probably continue to be the best choice for most people.
“Patients who have allergic reactions to eggs are no longer recommended to receive an egg-free flu shot, only because the amount of egg residue left after extraction is very small. Among people who are allergic to eggs, allergic reactions occur only in about 1 out of a million patients,” said Dr. Amin.
To be clear: The CDC and its Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices have not changed their recommendations regarding egg allergy and receipt of influenza (flu) vaccines. According to the CDC website, the recommendations remain the same as for the 2018-2019 season.
CDC information
The CDC explains egg allergies with relation to flu vaccines and describes the two egg-free (vegan) versions: Flublok Quadrivalent (licensed for use in adults 18 years and older) and Flucelvax Quadrivalent (licensed for use in people 4 years and older).
How to get the flu vaccine
Appointments are preferred and are available in five-minute increments. Please sign up for your time slot and make sure to bring your completed flu vaccine form and insurance card with you to your appointment. You are also welcome to acquire your flu vaccination from a provider of your choice. After obtaining your flu vaccination please provide verification to Human Resources.
NEOvations will bill your insurance for the cost of your flu vaccine this year. If you are not covered by NEOMED’s insurance, please make sure to have your health insurance card with you at the time of your appointment. If you do not have insurance, there will be a $35 fee.
For information on obtaining a vegan (egg-free) vaccine, contact Kunal Amin at extension 6192 or via email at: kamin@neomed.edu.
Please note: You will be required to show your completed immunization record to Human Resources for tracking purposes. Note that obtaining the influenza vaccine is a term and condition of employment, so failure to comply with the mandatory vaccination requirement may result in corrective measures. If you feel you qualify for a medical or religious exemption, please contact Karen Tomlinson, ext. 6727, or Dayonna Taylor, ext. 6729.