Posted on Friday 7th May 2021
Ramadan draws to a close next week with the beginning of Eid al-Fitr, and people observing the end of the Islamic holy month are being urged to plan ahead to follow the rules to help prevent the spread of coronavirus.
The month of fasting and spiritual reflection for many Muslims is followed by Eid al-Fitr - the Festival of the Breaking of the Fast, where family and friends traditionally get together to attend special prayers and celebrate.
However, with the country still under Stage Two of roadmap regulations the county council are reminding observing communities that they may need to make some adjustments this year to celebrate safely.
Muslim communities are being asked to continue to follow the ‘Hands, Face, Space and Fresh Air’ message and to only socially meet up outdoors in public places or private gardens in groups of six people or two households.
People are permitted to visit their local Mosque but are being advised to contact in advance to make sure they can attend safely.
Dr Richard Harling, Staffordshire County Council’s Director of Health and Care said:
“We are wishing all observing communities a happy and safe Eid and asking them to please remember to follow the guidelines in place and to take up the vaccine when offered.
“It’s a shame that Eid may have to look a little different, but some adjustments could be necessary to keep transmissions in check and prevent a possible surge in Covid-19 cases.
“People must avoid any indoor Eid celebrations with other households and stick to small outdoor events with under six people or two households. To reach out to wider friends and family people could consider celebrating via the use of technology such as video calling.
“There is lots of other advice on how to celebrate and remain safe and we would recommend people seek this out or discuss options with their local Mosque.
“ We want people to still make the most of this important celebratory time without putting themselves or family and friends at risk.”
Guidance on observing Eid safely is available on The Muslim Council of Britain https://mcb.org.uk and British Islamic Medical Association websites https://britishima.org.
All people over 40 in England can now book a Covid jab and the council is keen to repeat guidance that having the vaccination does not invalidate fasting.
Full details of all the local coronavirus and vaccine guidance can be found at https://www.staffordshire.gov.uk/Coronavirus.