THE WEST Midlands public health chief has asked the region’s Muslims to connect via social media rather than in person during Eid this year.
Dr Sue Ibbotson, the West Midlands regional director for Public Health England, encouraged Muslims to keep person-to-person contact to a minimum.
Dr Ibbotson said: “We all want to hug our loved ones and those in our communities that we long to see – as faith leaders continue to use social media for prayers and sermons, we would like local people to take advantage of those services to mark Eid al-Adha safely and connect with friends.
“If you are celebrating at home please don’t gather in large groups, and if you are visiting others please remember to maintain social distance.
“If you or someone in your household has coronavirus please do not leave home, and avoid making food for others.
“These restrictions are in place to keep all of our friends safe during this time. though we recognise this will make marking Eid al-Adha different this year.”
The Muslim festival commemorates the willingness of Ibrahim to sacrifice his son Ismael, also found in the Chrisitan and Jewish bibles.
Celebrations will be held from July 31.
In its latest statement on Eid al-Adha celebrations this year, the Muslim Council of Britain said: “While lockdown restrictions are easing, coronavirus is still active and requires our communities to act diligently in order to protect ourselves and wider society.
“This year of course is unlike any other, including restrictions on Hajj being in place and therefore presenting a challenging time for Muslims all over the world. However, Muslim communities are still able to make the most of Eid Al Adha.
“The Muslim Council of Britain has worked with the British Islamic Medical Association to produce advice on how best Muslims can celebrate Eid al-Adha safely and in accordance with public health guidance in England.”
The council advised Muslims to meet in small congregations, outside if possible, and avoid direct personal contact with worshippers from other households.
