Vatican bioethics document discusses vaccines derived from fetal tissue

In June 2006, we wrote an item titled, "Catholic medical group speaks against vaccines originally derived from fetal tissue," noting a statement on the topic by the Catholic Medical Association. On Friday, the Vatican issued its most significant document on biotechnology and bioethics in two decades. While the instruction titled Dignitas Personae received attention mainly for its statements on cloning, stem cell research, and in vitro fertilization, the morality of certain types of vaccines was also addressed.

First, the background. As we wrote in 2006:

"Several vaccines, particularly those for rubella and hepatitis A, were initially developed by research that involved tissue from fetuses that had been voluntarily aborted. In some cases, the research in question occurred as long as 40 years ago. (It should go without saying that there is no fetal material in the vaccines actually administered, nor has there ever been.)

Catholic groups have been among the most vocal critics of these vaccines' origins, raising questions about the morality of receiving them in light of the teachings of their religion. The question becomes particularly difficult for them when there is no alternative vaccine available in the U.S. not derived from fetal tissue. (This is the case with rubella and Hep A, although alternative vaccines are available internationally)."

The latest Vatican document echoes a 2005 opinion issued by the Pontifical Academy of Life. Section 35 of Dignitas Personae reads, in part:

"Thus, for example, danger to the health of children could permit parents to use a vaccine which was developed using cell lines of illicit origin, while keeping in mind that everyone has the duty to make known their disagreement and to ask that their healthcare system make other types of vaccines available."

More on the Vatican's views on these vaccines appears in this Catholic News Service story.