Children's Flu Vaccine and Porcine Gelatine: Information for Parents and Carers
Some parents and carers have questions about the porcine gelatine used in the children's nasal spray flu vaccine. This article explains why it is used, what faith organisations say and what alternatives are available so that you can make an informed decision.
Why is flu vaccination important for children?
Flu is more than a bad cold and can sometimes lead to serious illness. Children under five are five times more likely to be hospitalised with flu than adults over 65. In addition, children can easily spread flu to family members and others in the community. The NHS recommends the nasal spray flu vaccine because it helps protect children from flu and is quick and needle-free.
Why does the nasal spray flu vaccine contain porcine gelatine?
The nasal spray flu vaccine contains a small amount of porcine gelatine. Gelatine helps keep the vaccine safe and effective. The gelatine is highly processed, and tests show that no pig DNA can be detected in the vaccine.
What do faith communities say about the vaccine?
Many parents from Muslim, Jewish and other faith backgrounds understandably have questions about whether receiving a vaccine containing porcine-derived ingredients is compatible with their religious beliefs.
Religious views can vary between individuals, communities and scholars. However, a number of faith authorities have considered the issue and concluded that the nasal flu vaccine may be acceptable because of the way the gelatine is processed and because it is used for an important health purpose.
Muslim perspectives
The British Fatwa Council advised that the nasal spray flu vaccine is permissible because of its purity and medical importance. Some Muslim scholars and leaders have ruled that the use of highly purified gelatine in vaccines does not breach religious dietary laws, particularly because the vaccine is inhaled through the nose rather than eaten.
Jewish perspectives
Guidance cited by the UK Health Security Agency Guidance from the Kashrut and Medicines Information Service states that porcine ingredients may be permitted in medicines that are not taken by mouth, including vaccines given through the nose. The leaflet also notes that porcine gelatine is allowed in products that are not taken by mouth.
Is there an alternative flu vaccine?
Yes. An injectable flu vaccine that does not contain porcine gelatine is available.
If you would prefer this option for your child, speak to your GP practice, community pharmacy or school immunisation team before your child's vaccination appointment.
Need more information?
If you have questions about your child’s flu vaccination, speak to your GP practice, pharmacist or school immunisation team.
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UK Health Security Agency guidance on Vaccines and porcine gelatine How can my child get vaccinated?
Children aged 2 and 3 years can usually receive their flu vaccination through their GP practice. School-aged children are normally offered vaccination through the school immunisation programme.
If you would like to discuss the nasal spray vaccine or ask about alternative vaccines, contact your GP practice or school immunisation team before the vaccination session.
Protect your child this winter by making sure they don't miss their flu vaccination offer.