What should be screened before immunization administration to identify contraindications?

• A. History of severe allergic reaction to a previous dose or component
• B. Current moderate illness
• C. Certain immunodeficiencies
• D. History of severe allergic reaction to a previous dose or component; current moderate/severe illness; certain immunodeficiencies

Answer: (D)

Screening before vaccination is about safety: you’re looking for any reason the vaccine shouldn’t be given. The major contraindication flags you check for are a history of a severe allergic reaction to a previous dose or to a vaccine component, the presence of a current moderate to severe illness, and known immunodeficiencies that affect immune response or safety. Because all of these situations can raise risks or alter how the immune system handles the vaccine, a thorough screening that includes each of these areas best protects the patient. Mild illnesses or minor infections without fever are typically not a contraindication, so they don’t stop vaccination.