Can people with urticaria receive the COVID-19 vaccine?

COVID-19 vaccines are biological agents designed to prevent infection with the novel coronavirus. Widespread vaccination has already commenced; however, like all vaccines, they have specific indications and contraindications—prompting concerns among patients with urticaria. So, can individuals with urticaria receive the COVID-19 vaccine?

Can individuals with urticaria receive the COVID-19 vaccine?

Whether a person with urticaria may receive the COVID-19 vaccine depends on the specific clinical presentation of their urticaria and their individual immune status. Vaccination is generally not recommended during an acute flare-up of urticaria or during a relapse of chronic urticaria—particularly if the patient’s immunity is compromised. Following vaccination, the immune system may be further suppressed, potentially triggering a rapid exacerbation of urticaria. This may lead to respiratory tract edema, causing dyspnea or even asphyxia; it may also result in mesenteric edema, diarrhea, and abdominal pain—all of which pose significant risks to health.

If urticaria symptoms are relatively mild and immune function is comparatively robust, the COVID-19 vaccine is unlikely to provoke adverse reactions. There is no need for excessive concern—mild transient fever or limb soreness following vaccination are common and expected side effects. Given the high transmissibility of SARS-CoV-2, frontline healthcare workers—who frequently interact with infected patients—are at elevated risk of contracting and subsequently transmitting the virus.

Patients are advised to actively pursue effective treatment and pay close attention to dietary hygiene to avoid unnecessary complications. We hope this information proves helpful.