Celebrating Ramadan at home
This year, Ramadan, the holiest month for Muslims, takes place between the evening of Monday 12 April and end on the evening of Wednesday 12 May 2021.
The practice of fasting for healthy adults is an important part of Ramadan. This means no eating, drinking or smoking between dawn and sunset. It’s also a time for self-reflection, spending time with loved ones and acts of charity.
COVID-19 means that Ramadan will again be celebrated differently. The Muslim Council of Britain (MCB) have advice and information on how to continue the traditions and community spirit of Ramadan safely, such as home and virtual Iftars.
If you’re fasting and you start to feel unwell (nauseous, disoriented, faint or even collapsing) the general advice is to stop and have a drink of water. The Muslim Council of Britain has confirmed that this is acceptable under Islamic law.
It’s important to remember that there are several exemptions allowed to fasting. Anyone who has an increased risk of COVID-19 should consider alternative options, as well as those who are unwell due to conditions such as diabetes, blood pressure, heart disease, lung disease, or anyone who is on medication, pregnant or elderly.
Read the MCH Healthy Ramadan factsheet from MCB
Ramadan and COVID-19 vaccination
The British Islamic Medical Association have consulted a wide range of Islamic scholars and the vast majority agree that receiving a vaccine doesn’t invalidate your fast.