Flu Shot Testing

Carter finally went for his flu shot testing appointment and even though he is highly allergic to eggs, he was able to successfully receive the flu shot. It ended up being a long day for us though. When we got to the office we were told that they didn't have flu zone available yet, which is for children four and under. My poor son had been off all his allergy medicine for over a week because of this testing. No vaccine, no testing. I left feeling disappointed because we wanted to get him the flu shot as soon as possible and now they said it could be days or weeks. With one phone call to my pediatrician's office I was able to obtain the vaccine myself. I brought it to the allergist's office and he was then tested. They pricked his back with the vaccine, antihistamine, egg and one other. Of course the egg swelled up, but luckily the spot where the vaccine was didn't show much sign of irritation. He was then able to get a full dose at once and we had to wait around for about a half an hour or so. If his back had shown serious signs of irritation, they would have given him a little at a time over a couple of hours. We feel much better now knowing that he is protected and will most likely be able to get the swine flu vaccine. They do want to skin test him again for that one though, just to be sure. If your child has an egg allergy and needs the flu shot, ask an allergist about the testing. It was painless, just itchy. Maybe one day they will make the shots safe for all egg allergic patients without worry!

Flu Shot

I have always been strict about my whole family getting the flu shot every year. This year we are worried about our son because he has an egg allergy and it is not recommended that those with such an allergy get a flu shot. My husband and I both got one, as well as our daughter. His allergy/asthma doctor thinks it is important that he is also protected, so this week we are having him tested for the flu vaccine. They are going to prick his back and put the vaccine on it to see how big of a reaction he has. He has always gotten the flu shot and only had slight reactions, but since egg has been totally eliminated from his diet for a while he could have a shock reaction. If his reaction is okay they will give it to him in the office and watch him for a couple hours. The only reason that I am considering doing it is because he has bad asthma and he needs to be protected if possible. I'll let you know how it goes!

The Best Ever Egg and Nut Free Sugar Cookies!!!

I have tried so many egg free sugar cookie and shortbread recipes, but never found one that my whole family could agree on. Until now!! My mother in law gave me this recipe, but I had to do a few modifications to make to safe for my son. This is the best sugar cookie recipe ever! I hope you think so as well!

1 cup allowed butter, soft
3/4 c sugar
1 t vanilla
2 c flour
1/2 t baking powder (egg free)
1/4 t salt

Combine butter, sugar and vanilla in mixer bowl. Beat at medium until creamy. Reduce to low. Add the remaining ingredients. Beat well. Roll into 1" balls, flatten to 1/4" thickness with your palm or the bottom of a glass that is buttered and sprinkled with sugar. I find that it's easier to use your palm and then sprinkle them with the sugar. Bake 7-9 minutes at 400 degrees, until edges are just slightly golden.