On Wednesday, the World Health Organization (WHO) congratulated Muslims on the occasion of Eid al-Fitr, wishing all a happy blessed Eid, yet warning that the number of coronavirus infections in the Eastern Mediterranean is expected to reach a “shocking milestone” in a few weeks.
Muslims around the world are keen to perform the Eid mass prayers at mosques before coming together to celebrate the holy Muslim occasion by exchanging gifts or sharing meals.
“In a few weeks, our Region will reach the shocking milestone of 10 million people infected with COVID-19 since the start of the pandemic. This points to only one reason: that we are not doing everything we can do to contain and control this virus,” a statement issued by the organizing office for the Eastern Mediterranean Region read.
The organization added many have become complacent and no longer adhere to the measures necessary, which creates opportunities for the further spread of the virus.
The organization appealed to all Muslims, during and after Eid, to not only celebrate the advent of a new blessed month, but also to celebrate life by ensuring that no one unknowingly spreads the virus or becomes infected.
“Let us make the coming period one of joy and not mourning for families who may lose loved ones or friends. We all deserve to celebrate Eid al-Fitr safely this year. In these trying times, let us use opportunities like Eid al-Fitr to spread love, gratitude and hope. We can do this by performing our Eid al-Fitr prayers alone or with the family at home, as announced last year by Al Azhar and Dar Al Iftaa,” the statement continued.
The WHO stressed the importance of adhering to physical social distancing, by avoiding congratulations through physical contact and avoiding banquets and other social gatherings.
These simple actions of self-control are easy to implement, and can have significant effects on containing the spread of COVID-19, it said.
Egypt reported 1,187 new coronavirus cases on Wednesday, the last day of Ramadan. The government has imposed a partial two-week lockdown to curb the spread of the virus.
