Ask the Editor

Hi, I'm a vegetarian teenager, and I'm supposed to have my TB (Tuberculosis) vaccination in a while. I heard that such vaccines contain animal products, and now I'm wondering if I HAVE to have the vaccine. Any suggestions? - Chas

Yes, vaccines contain animal products and are therefore not vegan. They're also tested on animals and are not vegan for that reason as well.

The law allows exemptions from having to take any vaccine. However, these laws vary by state. There are three types of exemptions:

Religious - vaccinating goes against the tenets of your religion and the schools cannot impinge on your religious rights.
Medical - getting a vaccine will cause you significant personal injury or death, especially if you are allergic to the ingredients.
Personal or philosophical - you simply prefer not to have them for your own personal reasons.

You'll have to figure out what exemptions are allowed in your state. Do a Google search on the name of your state and "Vaccine Exemption." See what you come up with.

Since you mentioned that you are a teenager, your parent or guardian will have to request the exemption for you. Hopefully your parents will back you up on your decision. Good luck!

Sponsors:

Got Recipes? We Want Them!
Submit yours today to win a prize!