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Vaccines Containing Porcine/ Bovine Gelatine

بِسۡمِ اللهِ الرَّحۡمٰنِ الرَّحِيۡمِ
 

In the United Kingdom, the vaccines containing porcine gelatine in their manufacturing process include the MMR vaccine (VaxPro®), which provides protection against measles, mumps, and rubella; the shingles vaccine (Zostavax®), designed to safeguard older adults against shingles; and the children's nasal spray flu vaccine (Fluenz Tetra®), which guards children against influenza.

Are there viable alternatives to these vaccines containing porcine gelatine? Indeed, an alternative to the MMR vaccine (VaxPro®) exists, known as Priorix®, which is deemed equally safe and effective. Parents who prefer to avoid the porcine gelatine-containing MMR vaccine can request the Priorix® vaccine from their general practitioner. Currently, Zostavax® stands as the sole shingles vaccine available worldwide. However, for healthy children, there are no equally effective alternatives to Fluenz Tetra®. Although injectable flu vaccines without pork gelatine exist, they are less effective than Fluenz® in children, may require two doses, and offer limited efficacy in reducing flu transmission within the community. These vaccines are recommended primarily for individuals, both children and adults, at high risk of flu-related complications.

 

Vaccines Relevant Excipients
Vaccine ingredients

 

Dr. A. Hussain