Can people with urticaria (hives) receive the COVID-19 vaccine?
Dec 10, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
In general, patients with urticaria (hives) can receive the COVID-19 vaccine during a stable phase of their condition and in the absence of severe allergic reactions. However, vaccination is not recommended during an acute flare-up or if severe allergic reactions are present. After vaccination, maintain clean skin, avoid known allergens, follow a light diet, and seek medical attention promptly if symptoms such as worsening skin itching occur.
Generally, patients with urticaria (hives) can receive the COVID-19 vaccine during a stable phase of the condition and in the absence of severe allergic reactions. However, vaccination is not recommended during an acute flare-up or if severe allergic reactions are present. The detailed explanation is as follows:
Patients with urticaria who are in a stable disease phase and have not experienced severe allergic reactions recently may receive the COVID-19 vaccine after medical evaluation. During this stable period, symptoms are well-controlled and the immune system is relatively balanced, making the risk of adverse reactions following vaccination low. Vaccination under these conditions does not significantly interfere with the body's antibody production process, and proper administration can effectively provide immune protection.
If urticaria is in an acute phase or accompanied by severe allergic reactions such as difficulty breathing or laryngeal edema, immediate vaccination is not recommended. During an acute flare-up, the immune system is abnormally active; administering the vaccine may trigger or worsen allergic symptoms and could potentially impair the vaccine’s immunogenicity. In such cases, appropriate treatment should first be given to control the condition, and vaccination should only be considered after symptoms have completely resolved and upon consultation with a physician.
After vaccination, maintain clean skin, avoid known allergens, follow a light diet, and seek medical attention promptly if symptoms such as worsening itching occur.
