The COVID-19 vaccines do not contain any animal or egg products, or foetal cells or products. They are therefore suitable for people whose faith or dietary requirements mean they cannot have certain types of meat or who follow a vegetarian diet. The ingredients are published as part of the approval process and are available at:
• Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/regulatory-approvalof-pfizer-biontech-vaccine-for-covid-19
• Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/regulatory-approvalof-covid-19-vaccine-astrazeneca
The NHS is encouraging everyone to have the vaccine to help protect them and save lives. Having the vaccine is a personal choice and it is important you make your decision based on accurate information and facts. You may find the following sources of information helpful when deciding whether to have the vaccine: Advice for people who follow the Muslim faith
• The Mosques and Imams National Advisory Board (MINAB) produced the Friday sermon (khutbah) text for mosques which explains why Muslims should have the vaccine.
• The British Islamic Medical Association (BIMA) has recommended both the Pfizer BioNTech and Oxford AstraZeneca vaccines for the Muslim and has produced a variety of information on this which people may find helpful.
What’s in the Covid-19 vaccines?
• Video of GP Dr Amir Khan explaining that the vaccines do not have any animal products in and are suitable for Muslims and Hindus
• Ramadan and fasting Islamic scholars have also been clear that injections for nonnutritional purposes don’t invalidate the fast so you can still have your vaccination during Ramadan. The British Islamic Medical Association has also issued specific advice urging Muslims observing Ramadan not to delay getting the vaccine.
Advice for people who follow the Hindu faith • Neasden Temple has produced a video in Guajarati to explain the facts about coronavirus, providing reassurance on the safety and efficacy of the vaccine.
• Video of GP Dr Amir Khan explaining that the vaccines do not have any animal products in and are suitable for Muslims and Hindus Advice for followers of the Jewish faith
• The Conference of European Rabbis has released position statements on the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine.
Advice for people who follow a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle
• Vegetarian Society: what you need to know about the COVID-19 vaccine