Disease Prevention Through Immunization Methods According To Islamic Perspective

There are many misconceptions about immunization or vaccine which have been published, posted and spread on-line such as through blogs, websites and most notably the social media. However, many of these claims could not be confirmed and quite provocative in nature (Musa Mohd Nordin, 2014). Such misconceptions make the public sceptical and this has led to their refusal to take the vaccine for their children and themselves. This article examines the correlation method of vaccination or immunization with prevention methods in Islam. The methodology used is based on qualitative methods through document analysis. It was done by analysing all seven decisions from Muzakarah Jawatankuasa Fatwa Majlis Kebangsan Islam on immunization in Malaysia. The study found that only vaccinations or immunizations that are free from unlawful elements, such as porcine, are allowed. If the case of no alternative, immunization which contains illegal element is then allowed on the basis of an emergency (darurah). It was also found that the results related to immunization in Malaysian fatwas were intended as a preventive measure against infectious diseases that can cause death.