Flu vaccination season is underway and we have started receiving enquiries about the vaccines on offer.

Here is what we know:

People between the ages of 18 and 64 will be given one of two vaccines, commonly referred to as QIV(e) and QIV(c)

• QIV(e) is grown on eggs and is manufactured without the use of any other animal-derived ingredients. [Not vegan]
• QIV(c) is cell-derived. It is not grown on eggs; however, gelatine is used in the manufacturing process. [Not vegetarian or vegan]

The flu vaccine for over-65s is an “adjuvanted” vaccine (aTIV), which means that an “adjuvant” has been added to the vaccine to boost the immune system’s response.

• The adjuvant in the over-65s flu vaccine is fish-derived squalene. [Not vegetarian or vegan]
• Over-65s requiring an alternative to aTIV may be offered QIV(c). [As above, not vegetarian or vegan]

The nasal spray flu vaccine offered to children between the ages of 2 and 10 includes porcine gelatine. [Not vegetarian or vegan]

We understand many people may be conflicted about the idea of having to take non-vegetarian/vegan medicines, and some will find it upsetting. However, people should not put themselves at risk and should take medicines and vaccines they need, even if there are no vegetarian or vegan alternatives.

If you have any questions, please email us at hello@vegsoc.org or call 0161 925 2000.

Vaccines in the news

Last year the BBC and The Times asked us for a comment about vaccines. Here’s a link to The Times article. Our full quote is below:

“When the demand for vegetarian and vegan products is growing so rapidly, it is disappointing so many medicines and vaccines still use animal ingredients in their formulation. Many people will be conflicted about the idea of having to take non-vegetarian medicines, and some will find it upsetting. However, people should not put themselves at risk and should take medicines and vaccines they need, even if there are no vegetarian alternatives. To ensure everyone has the best chance of staying healthy and feeling good about it, vegetarian and vegan versions of all medicines and vaccines are needed.”

The Vegetarian Society is a charity powered by people like you. Find out more about joining, donating and getting involved.

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Notes to editors

• For media enquiries please email press@vegsoc.org or call 0161 925 2000