Last year, as half the world was confined because of the coronavirus epidemic, the World Health Organization (WHO) issued recommendations about this month of fasting that is said to start this year circa April 13, 2021.
So, is fasting a risk amid coronavirus? The WHO said that so far, no study had been carried out as for fasting and the risk of an infection, and that people in good health should be able to follow. For those who have been infected by covid-19, it is recommended to “consider religious licenses regarding breaking the fast in consultation with their doctors, as they would do with any other disease”. This recommendation also involves people showing symptoms, letting forecast a coronavirus case.
For the most vulnerable profiles, the WHO urges “older people and anyone with pre-existing medical conditions (such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic respiratory disease, and cancer) not to attend gatherings, as they are considered vulnerable to sever disease and death from COVID-19”.
Generally speaking, the WHO reminds the importance of social distancing whether in praying areas or in any context leading to a gathering. A one-meter distance between people is recommended.
The month of Ramadan being tightly linked to charity (Sadaqat or Zakah), the WHO also issues recommendations as for donations. As for food donations, the organization encourages to consider centralized entities and institutions and use individual pre-packaged boxes/servings of food.
Official website
apps.who.int
