International Journal of Infectious Diseases (Nov 2022)

Acute asthma exacerbation due to the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine (Pfizer-BioNTech BNT162b2 messenger RNA COVID-19 vaccine [ComirnatyⓇ])

  • Masaru Ando,
  • Yoshio Satonaga,
  • Ryuichiro Takaki,
  • Michitoshi Yabe,
  • Takamasa Kan,
  • Erika Omote,
  • Toru Yamasaki,
  • Kosaku Komiya,
  • Kazufumi Hiramatsu

Journal volume & issue
Vol. 124
pp. 187 – 189

Abstract

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The messenger RNA vaccine against SARS-CoV-2 is effective at preventing COVID-19-associated hospitalization, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has recommended vaccination for all eligible individuals. We demonstrate a case involving a patient who developed a life-threatening acute asthma exacerbation after receiving their third dose of the BNT16b2 vaccine. Because eosinophilia was observed after the second inoculation, it was considered likely that the patient had been sensitized to the BNT16b2 vaccine. Theoretically, the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine could trigger the exacerbation of asthma. It should be recognized that repeated SARS-CoV-2 vaccination may be a risk factor for the acute exacerbation of asthma.

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