Which is an absolute contraindication to vaccination?

Study for the Health CBE Exam. Prepare with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

An absolute contraindication to vaccination is a history of anaphylaxis to a vaccine or to a component of that vaccine. Anaphylaxis is a rapid, life-threatening allergic reaction. If someone has had anaphylaxis after a previous exposure, reusing the same vaccine or anything containing the same component could trigger another severe reaction. Because of this, the vaccine is not given in these cases.

Mild fever after a previous dose is a common, self-limiting reaction and does not by itself prevent future vaccination. Some reactions after a dose may lead to temporary postponement only if the illness is severe, but they are not absolute barriers. A fever in itself or a previous mild fever with a dose does not mean the vaccine must be avoided in the future. Age alone isn’t an absolute barrier either; vaccines have age-based recommendations, but simply being at a certain age doesn’t automatically contraindicate vaccination.