Who should not receive a tick vaccine? - briefly
Individuals with a history of severe allergic reactions to any component of the vaccine, including the adjuvant or preservative, should avoid it. Additionally, persons who are severely immunocompromised or are pregnant should be excluded unless a clinician determines the benefits outweigh the risks.
Who should not receive a tick vaccine? - in detail
Tick‑preventive immunization is contraindicated for specific populations because safety data are limited or adverse reactions are documented. The following groups should not be administered the vaccine:
- Infants and very young children – clinical trials have enrolled participants only from a defined minimum age (typically ≥12 months); younger patients lack efficacy and safety evidence.
- Pregnant or lactating individuals – no teratogenicity studies exist, and manufacturers advise avoidance until post‑partum data become available.
- Persons with a known hypersensitivity to any vaccine component, such as gelatin, aluminum adjuvant, or the tick‑derived antigen itself, should be excluded to prevent anaphylaxis.
- Patients receiving immunosuppressive therapy (e.g., high‑dose corticosteroids, biologics, chemotherapy) – the immune response may be insufficient, and the risk of atypical reactions increases.
- Individuals with uncontrolled chronic illnesses (severe cardiac, pulmonary, or renal disease) – the physiological stress of vaccination may exacerbate underlying conditions.
- Recipients of blood products or immunoglobulins within the preceding 30 days – interference with vaccine‑induced immunity is possible.
Clinicians must verify each contraindication before prescribing. When uncertainty exists, a risk–benefit assessment and consultation with an infectious‑disease specialist are recommended.