As the novel corona virus continues to spread globally and people go on to self-isolate in their homes and stockpile groceries, is this the right time to fast? Does fasting inadvertently weaken immune system? Does fasting cause dehydration? What health experts say? Is it advisable to fast during corona virus pandemic? These are a few questions raised by many Muslims and non-Muslims worldwide at such a turbulent phase of human history.
Fasting is one of the five pillars of Islam, and Muslims are required to fast during Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar.
With few days left before Ramadan begins, many Muslims around the world are wondering whether fasting can pose an increased risk of catching the COVID-19 virus, due to dehydration. It is a logical question as the corona virus pandemic is continuing to sweep its way across the world, where people werre advised to keep up fluid intake to keep mucus membranes moist.
Fasting is one of the five pillars of Islam, and Muslims are required to fast during Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. Ramadan is derived from the Arabic word “Al Ramad”, which means intense heat and drought. This reflects the hardship felt by Muslims who fast every day from dawn to sunset, during which they cannot eat or drink anything the whole day.
Ramadan is around the corner, Muslims worldwide wonder if they would be excused from fasting. Ramadan is expected to fall on April 23, depending on the crescent moon sighting and the Hijri calendar. In fact, Muslims cannot suspend one of the main worships and a key pillar of Islam unless a Sharia fatwa is issued by one of the Muslim world’s highest Islamic institute.
What health experts say?
According to recommendations by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and health experts, people are advised to drink plenty of fluids, particularly gargling with warm water and drinking liquids to keep their throat and respiratory tract moist.
Health experts say drinking water prevents dehydration, but it will not prevent anyone from catching the new corona virus.
What science says?
Recent scientific studies show that fasting is the secret to a healthier and longer life. According to a UK-based National Institute on Aging, evidence from decades of animal and human research shows wide-ranging health benefits of intermittent fasting.
Is it advisable to fast during corona virus pandemic? So Lets listen What Al Azhar Al Sharif says?
Al Azhar Al Sharif, the Muslim world’s top Sunni Islamic institution issued a statement that Muslims are required to fast this year, and fasting has nothing to do with the possibility of an increased risk of catching corona virus.
“Not fasting during Ramadan is not permissible due to corona virus, and fasting is a duty and a must for Muslims,” Al Azhar said in a statement.
Al Azhar’s Fatwa is based on the feedback they received from the World Health Organisation, which says that drinking and gargling with water does not protect a person from catching COVID-19 virus.
“We have asked WHO if drinking water or gargling with water would protect people from being infected with corona virus. The answer was: Although water is important for the moisture of human body, it does not protect against the virus and has not been proven that gargling with water can protect anyone from catching the virus.” I hope all the questions were answered, still if you have any question we can clarify your doubts. please mention your question in comments section.
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