Does Islam has anything against vaccinations?

[gorgorita]

Hi,
Yet again, on our well baby visit the doctor asked why we don't vaccinate. I said because of our religious beliefs. I know they are not supposed to ask, but he did ask what religion I am then. Me being stupid, answered the truth - we are muslims.
Can muslims opt out from vaccinations?
Does Koran say anything about our bodies to be perfect as he created us or something like that?

We don't go to mosque, we were born muslims but were not really practicing.

[kiara7]

It doesn't matter if your "official" religion doesn't say anything about vaccinations. Per law, it is your PERSONAL religious belief that you're opposed to the practice of vaccination. If he asks again, you can just say "I prefer not to discuss my religious beliefs" and leave it at that.

[lil_miss_understood]

I just googled (not being Islamic) and found this site with a bunch of links regarding immunization on the bottom.
Also this blog with this quote:

Dr Abdul Majid Katme, head of the Islamic Medical Association, is telling Muslims that almost all vaccines contain products derived from animal and human tissue, which make them "haram", or unlawful for Muslims to take.

Islam permits only the consumption of halal products, where the animal has had its throat cut and bled to death while God's name is invoked.

Islam also forbids the eating of any pig meat, which Katme says is another reason why vaccines should be avoided, as some contain or have been made using pork-based gelatine.

Of course, the article seems to think this is a "fundamentalist Islam" view : and seems to write off " anti-vaccination "believers" " as somehow crazy (just the tone of the blog).
I really don't like that blogger, after reading just that one entry. : But hopefully, that eases your mind somewhat.

[sheilige]

Without really doing any research, I do know that a few vaccines do contain gelatin which is a pork product usually which would make it haram for any muslim.

[applejuice]

In re: Islam and vaccinations.

Proof of polio vaccination is required for the pilgrimage to Mecca, afaik.

You should know that most Muslim clerics and Jewish clerics allow their congregants to take medication that is made from pork, one of which is Armour thyroid, made from pork thyroid glands, which is an excellent source. As for any other prohibition, I am not aware.