Fasting during the corona virus season is one of the challenges for Muslims to live the holy month of Ramadan this time.
For Muslims, fasting is mandatory. However, during the current corona virus season in society, can Muslims break their fast? And when should we break the fast?
Many are worried that fasting in the midst of the current corona pandemic will result in a decrease in endurance. To find out the answer, see the review below.
Fasting during the corona virus season, what are the effects?
Fasting actually requires Muslims not to eat and drink from sunrise to sunset.
On the other hand, drinking lots of fluids to keep the respiratory tract moist are some of the actions given by health professionals to reduce the risk of contracting the corona virus.
Dr William Schaffner, an expert on infectious diseases from Vanderbilt University has confirmed that drinking more water will not prevent anyone from getting the disease.
He said, “We always warn anyone who is healthy and people who are sick to maintain fluid intake and keep the mucous membranes moist.”
Al-Azhar as a world Islamic institution also provides a statement that fasting has nothing to do with the possibility of an increased risk of contracting the corona virus.
Their decision was based on the responses received by WHO (World Health Organization) that drinking and gargling with water does not protect a person from the corona virus.
Experts suggest that fasting can help prevent health problems such as high cholesterol, heart disease and obesity, as well as improve mental health. By not consuming any food, our body can concentrate on getting rid of toxins.
Who can break the fast and when to break the fast?
Even though fasting during the current corona virus season is mandatory, there are several conditions for Muslims who are allowed to break their fast, as follows:
1. Pregnant women
Pregnant women are allowed not to fast or break their fast, this is because it can pose a risk to their health.
In general, pregnant women who experience complications, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, kidney infections or heart problems are advised not to fast.
Call your doctor if you feel any of the following:
- Not gaining enough weight
- Feeling very thirsty
- Headache and fever
- Nausea or vomiting
- Feel pain like contractions
In general, women are advised not to fast during the first and third trimesters of their pregnancy.
However, before deciding on this, you should consult with your doctor first.
2. Health conditions that are really declining or sick
One condition that is permissible to break the fast is when a person experiences a declining health condition.
Someone who suffers from a mild illness may still be able to fast. However, this is different from someone who suffers from a more acute condition and requires medication every day or two to three times a day.
For example, drugs such as antibiotics that require regular intake can cause problems for patients who are fasting.
3. Those with symptoms of Covid-19
Those who experience symptoms of Covid-19 can be allowed to break their fast if their condition does not allow it. The most common symptoms of Covid-19 are:
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
Other symptoms can include:
- Fatigue
- Aches and pains
- Nasal congestion
- Have a cold
- Sore throat
- Diarrhea
These symptoms are usually mild and start gradually. Some infected people do not develop other symptoms. A person who has a fever, cough and difficulty breathing should seek medical attention immediately.
However, once their health conditions improve they have to undergo missed fasting.
Also read: Don’t Ignore, Recognize the Symptoms of COVID-19 in Children
How do you keep your body healthy while fasting during the corona virus season?
In the midst of the current corona pandemic, cleanliness of the body and environment must be prioritized. Adequate consumption of mineral water is highly recommended during fasting.
Balanced nutritional intake is also one way to maintain a healthy body while fasting. Not only that, reducing fried foods, foods that are too salty and those with high sugar content is also highly recommended during fasting. And don’t forget to take your vitamins too!
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