Muslim parents in England are refusing to get their children vaccinated with the nasal flu as it contains pork gelatine and Muslims do not eat pork on religious grounds, according to reports.
The Muslim Council of Britain said that they would opt for the Nasal spray Fluenz Tetra only if lives were at risk and most parents are refraining their children from getting the nasal flu vaccine.
Dr. Shuja Shafi, from the MCB’s research committee, reportedly said the view of some scholars is that ‘we need another vaccine which is halal’.
An MCB spokesperson said: “Health is paramount, anyone concerned about the use of gelatin in vaccines must consult a medical practitioner and make an informed decision.”
PHE reportedly said the vaccine’s use has been ‘significantly lower’ in Muslim-majority areas. A drive setting up across the nation next month will if every healthy child aged between two and 10 in England given the vaccine to increase immunity.
According to PHE, there are no ‘suitable alternatives’ to Fluenz Tetra for healthy children. There is an injectable version of the spray with the absence of pork gelatine, but it is said to be ‘less effective’ and at present only given to high-risk children.
Dr. Mary Ramsay, head of immunization at PHE, told the Telegraph: “Our first priority is to ensure that vaccines are safe and effective. PHE encourages parents to seek advice from their faith or community leaders to inform their decision.”
Why Is Pork Gelatine Used in Vaccines?
The nasal spray, Fluenz Tetra contains an extremely processed form of gelatine also known as porcine gelatine. The gelatin is also used in other essential medicines and forms a common part of the medical world. The main aim of the gelatin is to the vaccine viruses stable so that it provides the best protection against flu. They also protect vaccine viruses from adverse conditions such as freeze-drying or heat.
As per NHS, vaccines that have pork gelatine are:
1. Fluenz Tetra – a nasal spray vaccine which protects children against flu.
2. MMR VaxPro – a jab which protects against measles, mumps, and rubella.
3. Zostavax – an injection to keep adults safe from shingles.
