Islam instructs believers to seek medication for every disease. Prophet Muhammad said: “Make use of medical treatment, for Allah has not created a disease without appointing a remedy for it.” (Abu Dawud)
As many people remain hesitant towards the COVID-19 vaccine, the Indianapolis Muslim Community Association is taking steps to correct misinformation and encourage people to take the shot.
Its efforts included sponsoring a town hall with other imams and doctors to talk about the vaccine and what’s in it.
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“We are responsible morally and religiously to be a part of the solution,” Ahmed Alamine, president of Indianapolis Muslim Community Association, WishTV reported.
“We have a lot of community members who actually don’t trust the health care,” Alamine said. “And that’s why I used my religious authority in my religious position to show first of all that I would not issue any verdict without consulting doctors.”
Halal Concerns
As Muslims refrain from any products that include pork and alcohol, Muslim doctors confirmed that there is nothing in the vaccine that goes against faith.
“But our faith leaders also emphasize that if there were such things in medications or even vaccines, that for the betterment of human life and health, it’s not against the religion,” said Dr. Shamaila Waseem of Riley Hospital for Children.
Doctors confirmed that getting help from religious leaders was also urged.
“A lot of people listen to them so they have an influence. And whatever influence they can use to pass on the right information about COVID vaccine for like people who don’t have access to us … and can get information from an imam, why not,” said transplant pulmonologist Dr. Adil Sheikh of IU Health.
This effort goes in line with earlier steps taken by many Islamic groups across the world to encourage people to take the vaccine.
Earlier this week, the Colorado Muslim Society in Aurora hosted the first COVID vaccination clinic in the city to dismiss fears about the vaccine and assure the community on its importance.
Muslim groups and organizations in the US have also confirmed that receiving COVID-19 vaccine wouldn’t break fasting
Birmingham’s landmark Green Lane Masjid and Community Center issued a statement last month to clear skepticism surrounding COVID vaccine.
Muslim imams from different Italian cities have also announced their preparation to turn mosque to COVID vaccination centers.