A LEADING Oldham councillor and GP has urged his fellow members of the Muslim community to get the Covid vaccine - even during the forthcoming Ramadan month.

Dr Zahid Chauhan, who is also cabinet member for health and social care on Oldham Council, was speaking after a post has appeared on the I Love Oldham Facebook page stating that it was important the residents of the town can still have the Covid-19 vaccine while fasting.

Ramadan takes place between April 12 and May 12 when Muslims traditionally fast between sunrise and sundown.

The end of Ramadan is marked by a big celebration called "Eid ul-Fitr" (the Festival of the Breaking of the Fast).

Muslims are not only celebrating the end of fasting, but thanking Allah for the strength he gave them throughout the previous month.

The post said: "It is likely that Muslims will be invited to take the Covid vaccine (either first or second dose) during Ramadan.

"The BIMA (The British Islamic Medical Association) has reviewed opinions and has said taking the Covid-19 vaccine currently licensed in the UK does not invalidate the fast during Ramadan."

Following up the post Cllr Chauhan told The Oldham Times: "One the central concepts of Islam is to protect life. That being the case, I would strongly urge people to get vaccinated regardless of whether it is Ramadan or not.

"Anything that saves lives is the right thing to do, there's not question about it."

Infection and death rates are highest among Oldham's Black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) communities, which is why, council and medical chiefs say it is important for those residents to get their corovavirus jab when it is offered.

Meanwhile, anyone in Oldham aged 70 and over who has not yet received an appointment to get vaccinated is being advised to contact the NHS. Its website can be found at nhs.uk/CovidVaccine.