Durham, NC – Many people are allergic to something. Medical studies suggest that about 2% of Americans have allergies so severe they can be fatal.
A primary care physician at Duke is in that 2% and had to decide whether to gamble with getting the COVID-19 vaccine.
“I’ve had an anaphylactic reaction, which is a serious allergy,” said Dr. Leonor Corsino, an adult endocrinologist at Duke University Hospital.
She didn’t get her injection like most health officials did during the first week of Pfizer’s rollout.
“I was a little nervous to be honest,” she said.
Still, her history of a known severe allergy didn’t stop her from participating in the Global Health Initiative.
“I have to say that my first dose went well. I didn’t have any great responses, ‘she said.
There have been rare reports of side effects after the vaccine. Some health workers experienced shortness of breath, dizziness and increased heart rate. Since then, the CDC has issued new guidelines.
Anyone who has previously had severe reactions to vaccines should talk to their doctor before getting vaccinated. Those who are severely allergic to any of the ingredients in the Pfizer or Moderna shots should skip the vaccine.
Corsino said everyone will be monitored for up to 30 minutes after receiving the injection, and each vaccination site will have the medication on hand to treat an allergic reaction.
“I don’t want this to stop people from getting it,” she said. “My message is to do your homework and make an informed decision if this is right for you.”
And for Corsino, the benefits of the vaccine far outweighed the risks. As she prepares for her second dose next week, she’s encouraging people to trust science.