Concerns regarding the use of pork products in Indonesian vaccines have been addressed by a leading health expert. Dr. Raehanul Bahraen, a science advisor and member of the Indonesian Muslim Professionals (KIPMI), recently issued a statement clarifying the composition of vaccines used in the nation’s immunization program.
Speaking at a public health event in Jakarta on Thursday, Dr. Bahraen definitively stated,”The national vaccine program does not use pork. Hepatitis B does not use pork, nor do the others.”
However, a nuance was introduced regarding the inactivated Poliovirus Vaccine (IPV). Dr.bahraen explained that while pig enzymes are used as a catalyst in the IPV manufacturing process, “no pork elements were detected in the final result.” This distinction is crucial in addressing concerns within the community.
Addressing the potential presence of pork-derived vaccines in Indonesia, Dr.Bahraen noted that any such vaccines would be imported, not domestically produced.He explained, “Why do you need imported vaccines? Because in Indonesia there are also people from abroad and when it comes to vaccine schedules they look for vaccine schedules from other countries and it could be different from in Indonesia.”
This clarification aims to alleviate anxieties among the Indonesian population and underscores the importance of accurate details dissemination regarding public health initiatives. The statement highlights the rigorous standards maintained in Indonesia’s national vaccination program and the measures taken to ensure the safety and suitability of all vaccines administered.
The issue of vaccine composition and religious dietary restrictions is a global concern. Similar debates have occurred in various countries, highlighting the need for obvious dialog and scientific accuracy in addressing public health matters. This situation underscores the importance of clear and accessible information for all communities.
The national vaccine program in Indonesia does not use pork products. [1] While pig enzymes are used in the manufacturing process of the inactivated Poliovirus Vaccine (IPV),no pork elements are present in the final vaccine. [1] any vaccines derived from pork products in indonesia would be imported, not domestically produced. [1]
