Is the COVID vaccine safe for BAME people? Yes - BAME people were represented in clinical trials during the development of the vaccines and there is no medical evidence to suggest it is unsafe for BAME people.
Was the vaccine 'rushed', making it unsafe? The vaccine was developed quickly, as many researchers refocused their efforts to work entirely on COVID-19. This does not mean it is unsafe. Appropriate measures have been taken – the vaccines have been tested on large numbers of people, in strictly regulated clinical trials.
Is the vaccine halal? The Pfizer/BioNTech, Oxford/AstraZeneca and Moderna vaccines do not contain any animal-derived ingredients. The British Islamic Medical Association has recommended those in the Muslim community get vaccinated.
Will the vaccine have any effect on my fertility? The Association of Reproductive and Clinical Scientists and the British Fertility Society have stated there is "absolutely no evidence, and no theoretical reason, that any of the vaccines can affect fertility." Getting the vaccine can be especially important for you if you are living with conditions such as HIV, diabetes, and/or heart and circulatory conditions.
Can I take the vaccine if I have a long-term or chronic health condition? The vaccine is safe for most people. If you have had severe allergic reactions in past to any ingredients in the vaccine, you should not take it. If you have autoimmune or other conditions, check with your GP before getting the vaccine.