To what extent is the supplication of Ruqyah for epidemics, circulated via mobile messages, authentic: "I have sought protection with the Possessor of Might, and I have sought refuge with the Lord of the Dominion, and I have put my trust in the Ever-Living Who never dies. O Allah, avert this epidemic from us, and protect us from the evil of illness, and save us from stabbing and plague and affliction, by Your gentleness, O Gentle One, indeed You are over all things competent"?

Seeking protection through legitimate ruqyah (incantations) and supplications is part of the Prophet's guidance (peace and blessings be upon him). He frequently sought refuge in Allah from "leprosy, madness, elephantiasis, and evil diseases." Sheikh Ibn Uthaymeen mentioned that "evil diseases" includes all severe illnesses such as cancer. Scholars have adduced the permissibility of supplicating for the removal or prevention of epidemics, as it does not contradict devotion through supplication. It may also be a cause for a long life or the removal of illness. Supplication repels affliction like a shield repels an arrow. As for the supplication mentioned in the question, it has not been reported in the books of Sunnah. However, since its words are legitimate and do not contradict Sharia, it is permissible to supplicate with it, provided that no special merit is attributed to it and that it does not become a habit that parallels worship. It is better to prioritize what has been reported in the Sunnah.