AD ECDC approves general preventive measures for Ramadan

The general precautionary and preventive measures include the mandatory wearing of face masks in public, especially near individuals from vulnerable groups, avoiding touching eyes, nose and mouth before washing hands, and covering mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, and disposing of it immediately after use. 

The measures also include regularly sanitising hands with an alcohol-based disinfectant or washing well with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched items and surfaces and keeping a physical distance of at least two metres. 

The committee approved measures relating to religious practices or activities, including recommending that Covid-19 patients should consult with a doctor before fasting and group Iftar and Suhur gatherings should be limited to family members who live in the same house. Iftar meal donations are allowed through online distribution platforms, while offering and distributing meals in public areas, including in front of homes, mosques and restaurants, is prohibited, except by authorised entities.

Measures also include allowing congregational prayers in mosques for men per precautionary measures, with the duration of Isha and Tarawih prayers not exceeding 30 minutes. Paying zakat and alms donations can be done online through the websites of various charities, while religious studies lectures and Holy Quran recital sessions are also to be offered online. 

The committee approved measures relating to social activities including that Ramadan greetings and wishes are to be extended through online communication platforms instead of physical gatherings or attending majlis. Family and friends should gather virtually during Ramadan nights instead of physically at gatherings or at home visits. Individuals and entities are prohibited from setting up Ramadan Iftar tents, while mass gatherings, home visits, and setting up other Ramadan tents, whether by entities or individuals, are also prohibited. 

The measures also encourage ordering essential Ramadan items online to avoid going to crowded markets and shopping centres, while distributing and exchanging meals between neighbours, families and friends is prohibited. Individuals from the most vulnerable groups should reduce their interactions with others by avoiding gatherings and unnecessary outings, and Ramadan night gatherings in majlises should also be avoided.
Intensified inspection and monitoring campaigns will be conducted to ensure compliance with precautionary measures, with violators reported to the Attorney-General.

The risk of infection increases with increased and prolonged interactions with others. The committee has approved measures for when shopping during the month of Ramadan, including to minimise visits to grocery stores and other shops to buy essential household items, and, if it is necessary to shop in-person, avoid peak hours. Opt to shop online for basic items such as groceries, fruits, vegetables, meat, fish, etc. If shopping in person, carefully disinfect the handles of shopping trolleys, and do not touch products that you won’t purchase. Use disinfectant wipes to clean items bought after arriving at home, and carefully wash fruits and vegetables.

The measures also state that is it safer to choose to pay electronically, whether by card or through mobile payment apps, and to choose to use escalators or stairs whenever possible, instead of elevators. Individuals from the most vulnerable groups, such as senior citizens and those with chronic diseases, should avoid going shopping. 

You can increase your immunity by eating healthy and balanced meals, drinking plenty of liquids and exercising. Follow all precautionary measures and adhere to these general preventive measures. 

Contribute to reducing the spread of infection and raise awareness among your family members about these measures.