Oldham GP and Mosques' Council chief urge Muslims to have the vaccine during Ramadan

An Oldham GP and an Oldham Mosques' Council Development Officer have urged Muslims to have the Covid-19 vaccine during Ramadan.

The two Oldham Muslim figures have joined other medical leaders and Islamic scholars in stressing that Ramadan should not stop anyone from getting the NHS COVID-19 vaccination.

Dr Zia Jalal, an Oldham GP and Mufti Helal Mahmood MBE, Development Officer for Oldham Mosques' Council, stressed that getting the jab does not break the fast observed by Muslims during daylight hours over Ramadan.

They highlight the importance of still having your vaccine during Ramadan if you are invited, or your appointment happens to be during this time.

Dr Jalal said: “Having an injection during Ramadan does not break your fast.

"According to shariah it is permissible to have the COVID-19 vaccination whilst fasting, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t have the vaccine if you are eligible and invited for the jab, whether that is your first or second dose of the vaccine.

“Many studies have been carried out and results show that the vaccine is safe, with minimal side effects.

"It is important to remember that while side effects of the vaccine are unlikely, breaking your fast to take medication is allowed during Ramadan if you feel unwell, whatever the cause.”

Mufti Mahmood said: “In Oldham Ramadan will continue to be different this year but we want to assure you that experts across the UK have specified that taking the vaccine whilst fasting is acceptable stated that it does not break the fast.

“The COVID-19 vaccine is safe, effective and the best way to protect you and your loved ones.

"I encourage all residents in Oldham to consider taking the vaccine when offered.

“The vaccination programme in Oldham has been a great success but the programme is still ongoing so we all must continue to follow the guidance and stay safe.

“If anyone has any concerns about the vaccine, just talk to a healthcare professional and make a decision based on the facts.

"Ramadan Mubarak.”

NHS Oldham Clinical Commissioning Group and Oldham Council have been working together to help tackle vaccine hesitancy which has included engaging with community and faith leaders, translating materials into different languages and reaching communities with pop-up clinics and in places of worship, including mosques across Oldham.

---

Do you have a story for us? Want to tell us about something going on in and around Oldham? Let us know by emailing news@oldham-chronicle.co.uk , calling our Oldham-based newsroom on 0161 633 2121 , tweeting us @oldhamchronicle or messaging us through our Facebook page. All contact will be treated in confidence.