Coronavirus: Fatwa council advises Muslims feeling unwell not to pray at mosques

Mosques are expected to remain closed throughout the holy month. Rich-Joseph Facun / The National

Muslims in the UAE have been told not to attend prayers in mosques if they are feeling unwell or have a compromised immunity.

According to a fatwa issued by the country’s Fatwa Council on Tuesday, anyone at risk of potentially contracting coronavirus — including senior citizens, anyone suffering from a respiratory disease and people who have a weakened immune system — should avoid going to mosques and pray at home instead.

The fatwa said people should take all necessary precautions to avoid contracting the virus.

“Anyone who suffers from or is suspected to have this disease is forbidden by the Sharia to be in public places, or to go to the mosque to attend congregational prayers, Friday, or Eid,” said the fatwa.

“They must commit to the treatment decided by the health authorities in the country. This is so as not to contribute to the transmission of the disease to others.”

With regard to Hajj and Umrah, the fatwa said that everyone must abide by the instructions issued by the government of Saudi Arabia.

The council called on the public to co-operate with authorities to limit the spread of the virus.