Certain live vaccines, like the MMR vaccine, include gelatine sourced from pigs to help stabilise them for safe storage across various temperatures. This gelatine is extensively purified and broken down into tiny molecules, ensuring no pig DNA remains. However, individuals from some religious backgrounds might have concerns about pig-derived gelatine. Under Jewish law, porcine components in non-oral items, such as vaccines, are not considered problematic. Likewise, many Muslim leaders have determined that the highly purified, non-orally administered gelatine in vaccines does not violate religious dietary rules.

• There are some vaccines available without animal derived ingredients.
• Flu – the injection option doesn’t contain any gelatine derived product.
• MMR – in the UK we have 2 types of MMR vaccine – MMR VaxPro® and Priorix®. Priorix® does not contain gelatine and is as safe and effective as MMR VaxPro®.
• You will need to speak to speak to your school aged provider to arrange this gelatine free option if required.