Local people found it easier to get their Covid-19 vaccine during Ramadan, thanks to an evening pop-up clinic held at a Huddersfield mosque.
Masjid Riza in Birkby was transformed into a vaccination clinic. Medical leaders and Islamic scholars have stressed that getting the vaccine does not break the fast observed by Muslims during daylight hours over Ramadan.
The British Islamic Medical Association, an affiliate of the Muslim Council of Britain, has issued specific advice, recommending the vaccine and insisting it is okay to have during Ramadan as it is not nutritional, nor does it contain any animal or foetal products.
The NHS in Kirklees responded to calls from the local community to hold the evening clinic during Ramadan. GPs offered the first dose of the vaccine to people aged over 45, or over 30 with a health condition that puts them at greater risk from Covid-19.
Dr Burhan Ahmed, Clinical Director for Greenwood PCN and GP at Croft Medical Centre said: “We want to make it as easy as possible for people to get their vaccine when they are eligible.
“Muslims should not delay getting their vaccine during the holy month of Ramadan. The vaccine is not nutrition, so it does not invalidate the fast.
“We know that some people may prefer to get their jab after Iftar, when they have eaten. Holding a clinic after sunset gives people greater choice.”
It is the second time a pop-up vaccination clinic has been held at the mosque.
Sharafat Ali, Trustee, Masjid Riza said: “We’re pleased to welcome our local GPs back to Masjid Riza and open our doors to our local community.
“It’s really important that Muslims continue to get their vaccine this month. Many Muslim scholars across the country have come together to say it is permissible to have the vaccine during Ramadan.
“Please, accept the offer of the vaccine when you’re invited. It is one of the keyways out of the pandemic, insha’Allah.”
The NHS is inviting people aged over 42 to get their first dose of the vaccine. Appointments can be booked by visiting the NHS website or by calling 119.
