Experts have warned that receiving the coronavirus vaccine does not break your fast as millions partake in Ramadan this month.
The British Islamic Medical Association (BIMA) has issued advice on the booster vaccine and Covid tests and confirmed that both are permitted during fasting hours.
Muslims around the world are currently fasting for Ramadan, meaning they cannot eat or drink anything during the hours of daylight.
There are certain rules Muslims must follow during Ramadan – but also a number of myths that circulate each year.
NHS Lothian shared advice on social media from BIMA, who reviewed analysis of Islamic scholars over whether receiving the Covid jab and coronavirus tests are allowed.
After consulting various health experts, they concluded that that vaccine does not include any animal products or ethanol (alcohol).
It stated: "Taking the Covid-19 vaccines currently licensed in the UK does not invalidate the fast, as per the opinion of Islamic scholars. Individuals should not delay their Covid vaccinations on the account of Ramadan.
"Subcutaneous, subdermal, intramuscular, interosseous, or intra-articular injections for non-nutritional purposes whilst fasting do not invalidate the fast, regardless of the injected content entering the blood circulation. These routes are not classed as entry sites that would invalidate a fast.'
"Receiving the Covid-19 vaccine as an intramuscular injection, the only route for the vaccines currently available, therefore does not invalidate the fast."
The British Islamic Medical Association has reviewed Covid tests and found that LFTs and PCRs also do not invalidate fasts.
"Taking the Covid-19 PCR or lateral flow tests does not invalidate the fast during Ramadan as per the opinion of the majority of Islamic scholars," it stated.
During Ramadan, along with not eating and drinking, Muslims should also abstain from sexual activity, chewing gum and smoking during fasting hours.
People should also make an effort not to hold grudges and to be open to forgiveness.
Swallowing your saliva, taking medication or accidentally eating or drinking does not break your fast, most experts say.
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