Having a Covid vaccine does not invalidate Ramadan fast say Islamic medical experts to Muslims in Milton Keynes

To reassure the Muslim community, the British Islamic Medical Association has reviewed the analysis of Islamic scholars and confirmed that having the vaccine does not invalidate the fast.

In addition, the vaccine does not contain pork or other animal, foetal or alcohol products and the advice from the majority of Islamic scholars is that it is permissible.​

Ramadan is due to start on the evening of Monday April 12.

Dr Ashraf and Dr Hawash, both practising Muslims, said: “Assalamualaikum and Ramadan Mubarak to our fellow Muslims. The holy month will be a very different experience for all of us once again this year, thanks to Covid-19, and your Imam will be able to advise you on how best to mark the month. However you celebrate, we wish you a safe and healthy Ramadan.”

“As Muslims we have a duty to preserve life and getting vaccinated is the most effective way to prevent illness and loss of life from Covid-19. A lot of hard work has gone into bringing the vaccines to our local communities to protect our most vulnerable, and we have already vaccinated thousands of people in Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes.

"We must now stand together and not allow this progress to halt during Ramadan. Islamic scholars have made it clear that having the vaccine does not invalidate the fast, however if you are still unsure whether you should have a vaccine during the holy month please speak to your local Imam for guidance.”

“We urge everyone to have the jab when offered, but please continue to follow government guidelines to reduce transmission and help save lives.”