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Heartbeat: Ramadan during COVID-19

May 18, 2020

This year Ramadan has been a different experience as places of religious worship of all denominations are closed across the UK. Ramadan is a time of spiritual reflection, self-improvement, and heightened devotion and worship. Muslims are expected to put more effort into following the teachings of Islam and perhaps with the events of 2020 so far it will play an even more important part in the lives of many people.

Typically, Ramadan lasts for 29-30 days and ends with the celebration of Eid- Ul-Fitr. Many Muslims will fast each day from sunrise to sunset. This includes not eating food, drinking liquids or smoking. It is common to have one meal known as the suhoor just before sunrise and an evening meal known as Iftar after sunset.

It’s also a time for charitable activity, some people may make donations, and others may participate in events. This year there is lots of activity going on in and around our Trust which colleagues may wish to participate in.

Respecting the important role of Ramadan is something we support at our Trust. This year we will be doing things a little differently. Some of the key changes include:

  • Prayer facilities will be available in ‘hot areas’ to enable colleagues to pray without leaving the area
  • Prayer mats will be available in local prayer areas with disposable covers
  • Colleagues will be offered night shifts
  • Food will be made available to breakfast at the correct time.

Fasting is a central part of Ramadan. It is, however, important to highlight that some people and indeed patients we may see might be exempt from fasting. These people include:

  • All those who are unable to fast due to illness (physical or mental) or being frail
  • Pregnant and menstruating women
  • Lactating women who have concerns about their own, or their child’s health.

It’s also worth noting that some medical procedures do not break fasting. These may include things such as:

  • Injections (Intravenous, intramuscular, intracardiac, intraosseous, intradermal and subcutaneous)
  • Taking bloods (thumb prick or intravenous)
  • Eye or ear drops (unless the tympanic membrane is perforated)
  • Urethral infusion, transdermal patch (i.e. nicotine patches), concentrate oxygen, epidural analgesia and haemodialysis.

Dr Parijat De, Consultant in Diabetes and Endocrinology commented: “Exemptions exist for people with serious medical conditions, including many with diabetes, but a large number will participate, often against medical advice. With the correct advice and support from health care practitioners and local guidelines, many people with type 2 diabetes and other medical conditions may be able to fast safely during Ramadan.”