Community members who are Muslim in Chatham-Kent, and around the world, are observing the month of Ramadan.
But, for most, Ramadan will look different this year. Because COVID19 spreads through contact between people, the government of Ontario is not allowing gatherings of 5 or more people, including religious gatherings. People are also being encouraged to stay home except for essential reasons, only gather with people in their own household and to keep 2-meters apart from others when outside the home. Together, these public health measures may mean a big shift in how Ramadan activities are observed.
There are still ways you can reflect, improve, pray, share and care – from a healthy distance.
For example:
- Use phone, social media and video to stay connected with your family, friends and religious community;
- Continue usual prayer and other practices at home;
- If greeting others, wave, nod or place your hand over your heart;
- Avoid preparing food for others if you are not feeling well, even if symptoms are mild;
- Wash your hands for 20 seconds, using soap and water or a hand sanitizer whenever you enter your home, blow your nose, sneeze or cough, eat or handle food to protect yourself and others;
- If considering charity, try using online methods to donate to non-profits helping people affected by the outbreak;
- There have been no studies on fasting and risk of COVID-19 infection. Healthy people should be able to fast during this Ramadan. People who have symptoms of COVID-19 should consult with their health care provider, as they would with any other disease.
CK Public health thanks you for staying home during Ramadan.
We know this is a time where gathering is traditionally especially important to many of our community members. Our efforts to stay apart when we would usually be together will help to control the spread of COVID-19 and protect people who are vulnerable in our community.
For more information & resources:
World Health Organization. Safe Ramadan Practices in the Context of the COVID-19