WHO publicizes safe Ramadan practices amid Covid-19 pandemic

With a few days to the holy month of fasting for muslims, Ramadan, the World Health Organization (WHO) has publicized an interim guideline of safe Ramadan practices amid the Covid-19 crisis.

As Ramadan falls between late April and late May, the guidelines highlight the public health advice for social and religious practices and gatherings during the month that can be applied across different national contexts.

As such, the “Safe Ramadan Practices in the Context of the Covid 19” notes that nations must consider cancelling social and religious gatherings and recommends that any decision to restrict, modify, postpone, cancel or proceed with mass gatherings must be based on a “standardized risk assessment exercise”.

These exercises should be a part of a comprehensive approach taken by national authorities as response efforts.

Further, it stresses on the importance of physical distancing, noting that a distance of at least one metre or three feet, must be maintained between individuals at all times.

Urging the people to use culturally and religiously sanctioned greetings that avoid physical contact, such as waving, nodding, or placing the hand over the heart, the guideline goes on to advice against large gatherings in places associated with Ramadan activities.

Groups at a high risk of contracting the virus have been urged to avoid attending events and follow national guidance on follow-up and management of symptomatic cases such as facilitating isolation and quarantine.

As those suffering from chronic illnesses such as diabetics, chronic respiratory disease as well as cancer are vulnerable to severity and possibly even death, they have been urged to stay home.

Further, individuals offering sadaqat or zakah have been asked to consider physical distancing and avoid banquets overall.

However, the guidance notes that healthy people should be able to fast as in previous years during this Ramadan as well, as studies have not shown fasting to be a risk of contracting Covid-19.

In addition, the guideline instructs the enforcement of routine cleaning of venues where people gather, with disinfectant and keep mosques clean overall.

Maldives has confirmed a total of 67 Covid-19 cases thus far, since March 7, with 15 cases reported on Monday already.