Entering the fasting month, some people may feel hesitant to vaccinate because they think this procedure can break the fast and reduce the effectiveness of the vaccine. This is not true though. Vaccination during fasting is still important to prevent COVID-19.
Vaccines function to stimulate the body's immune system to form immunity against a virus or bacteria that causes disease, so that the body can avoid infection with these germs. Vaccination is usually done by injection.
Vaccines can be given to anyone, from infants, children, adults, to the elderly. The schedule and terms of administration will be determined by the doctor, depending on the type of vaccine and the condition of the vaccine recipient.
However, there are still many people who are reluctant to get vaccinated during the fasting month because they think this can reduce the success of vaccination or cancel the fast.
Vaccination During Fasting is Safe and Does Not Cancel Fasting
Public doubts about vaccination during fasting have been answered by the fatwa of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) which states that the injected vaccine does not invalidate fasting.
People who are fasting can still get vaccines, including the COVID-19 vaccine, whose program is still running. In addition to the COVID-19 vaccine, various other types of injected vaccines, such as hepatitis A vaccine, hepatitis B vaccine, injectable polio vaccine (IPV), and MMR vaccine, can also be given during the month of Ramadan.
The MUI explained that injectable vaccines, which are generally given by injection into muscle tissue, do not invalidate fasting. According to the MUI, the vaccination that can break the fast is the administration of the vaccine orally, that is, by mouth drop, for example the oral polio vaccine and rotavirus vaccine.
In addition, the vaccine used has also received a distribution permit from BPOM and halal certification from the MUI, so it does not make fasting invalid. For example, a vaccine to prevent COVID-19 disease whose halal certification has been issued by the MUI. This vaccine is known to contain no pork or other animals, borax, formalin, mercury, and preservatives.
Following the issuance of the MUI fatwa, the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Indonesia also stated that fasting had no effect on the effectiveness of the vaccine. Vaccines that are injected into the body are still able to form antibodies, even though the person receiving the vaccine is fasting.
So, now you don't have to worry anymore about getting vaccinated while fasting.
However, remember. Before receiving the vaccine, do some preparations so that your body is in good health, such as eating a balanced nutritious diet at dawn and breaking the fast, drinking more mineral water, getting enough rest, and exercising regularly.
If you suffer from a disease that requires regular medication consumption, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, continue to take your medication as directed by your doctor. If necessary, make adjustments to the time of taking medication during fasting. However, first consult with your doctor about adjusting the schedule for taking the drug.
When at the vaccination site, make sure you continue to apply health protocols, such as wearing a mask, maintaining a safe distance (psychological distancing), and washing hands regularly, to prevent the transmission of COVID-19.
If you still have questions regarding vaccinations during fasting or information regarding tips for healthy fasting, you can use the ALODOKTER application to chat directly with the doctor. You can also make an appointment with a doctor at the hospital if you need an in-person examination.