Mary Berry Responds to Trump’s Vaccine Claims with Personal Resolve

Mary Berry, the celebrated baker and former judge of the Great British Bake Off, has publicly addressed Donald Trump’s controversial statements regarding vaccines, firmly stating her commitment to vaccination. In a brief yet impactful response, Berry emphasized, “I will have all my vaccinations” during an interview with the Radio Times Magazine, highlighting her personal experience with polio as a child.

The conversation arose following Trump’s unsubstantiated claims linking vaccines and paracetamol to autism, statements that have been widely discredited by medical experts and global health organizations. Health professionals and politicians have rapidly countered Trump’s assertions, reinforcing the importance of relying on credible medical advice.

During a discussion on ITV, a spokesperson expressed clear opposition to Trump’s remarks, asserting, “I trust doctors over President Trump, frankly, on this. There is no evidence to link the use of paracetamol by pregnant women to autism in their children. None.” They urged the public to disregard Trump’s comments on medical matters, instead advocating for guidance from British doctors and the National Health Service (NHS).

Berry’s Personal Journey and Vaccine Advocacy

In her response, Berry, now 90 years old, reflected on her own health challenges, having battled polio at the age of 13. This experience led to a prolonged hospital stay and left her with physical complications. In her 2013 autobiography, she detailed the emotional toll of her illness on both herself and her family, recalling, “I just couldn’t understand why Mum wasn’t coming in to give me a cuddle, to talk to me and comfort me.” Despite these challenges, Berry considers herself fortunate, stating, “I only had it on my left side… I look a bit funny when I’m rolling pastry but I have no other difficulties whatsoever.”

The introduction of the polio vaccine in the UK during the 1950s was pivotal in combating the disease, and it remains part of the NHS’s routine childhood vaccination schedule. Berry’s strong endorsement of vaccinations aligns with the NHS’s current campaign urging parents to ensure their children receive flu vaccinations, particularly as cases are on the rise this winter.

Duncan Barton, England’s chief nursing officer, expressed concern about the early onset of flu this year, particularly among children, who can transmit the virus to vulnerable populations, including the elderly. He noted, “Flu can spread like wildfire across schools and can make children really unwell. Vaccination remains the best way to shield your child from getting seriously ill.”

Health Minister Stephen Kinnock also stressed the importance of vaccinations for adults, stating, “Vaccination is the best defence—I’ve just had the flu vaccination myself because I know what a difference it can make.”

Upcoming Television Appearance

Mary Berry is set to return to television with her new programme, “Mary at 90: A Lifetime of Cooking,” which will premiere tonight at 19:30 on BBC Two. This series promises to showcase her culinary expertise while reflecting on her extensive career in the culinary world.

As discussions about health and vaccines continue to resonate globally, Berry’s commitment to vaccination not only underscores her personal journey but also serves as a reminder of the broader public health implications of vaccine advocacy.