Health Canada plans to make no new recommendations after two people in the UK reported experiencing serious allergic reactions to the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine.
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In a statement released on Saturday, the federal agency said it had examined the evidence known to date. She concluded that “the current product monograph and public health guidelines are appropriate”.
“In light of the information currently available, Health Canada has determined that the benefits of the vaccine outweigh the risks,” the agency said.
Health Canada reports that these two people had a history of severe allergic reactions and had an epinephrine auto-injector with them. They both received treatment and are now well.
The UK is the first country to launch a vaccination campaign using the product designed and manufactured by Pfizer-BioNTech.
Health Canada recalls that all vaccines come with a warning against the risk of serious allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis. She adds that “vaccination clinics have the necessary resources to manage these rare phenomena”.
The agency remains the course by recommending “to people allergic to any of the ingredients of the vaccine not to be vaccinated”. She also advises those who have had a serious allergic reaction to another vaccine, medication or food to check with their healthcare professional before getting vaccinated.
Health Canada says continues to work with the UK’s Medicines and Health Products Regulatory Agency and with the manufacturer to monitor the situation. It will announce measures if new safety concerns are confirmed.
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