Strict observance of health protocols advised for Eid’l Fitr

CEBU, Philippines — Strict observance of the health measures is advised for all rites that involve gatherings in public places or in mosques during the Muslim celebration of Eid’l Fitr this week.

The Department of Health (DOH), in an advisory, has reminded the public to strictly follow the minimum health standards to prevent the further spread of COVID-19 and to keep the country’s infection rate low.

“As our Filipino brothers and sisters are set to mark the end of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, DOH reminds everyone celebrating the Eid’l Fitr to strictly follow the minimum public health standards and local community quarantine protocols at all times,” it said.

Taking a cue from what happened in India following some political rally and religious activity resulting in a worse surge, the DOH gave out some reminders in relation to the Eid’l Fitr, observance of Eid'l Fitr, the end of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.

DOH recommended praying and celebrating Eid at home for everyone’s safety.

However, for those planning to offer Eid prayers in mosque or masjid, the worship place for Muslims, or even in public places, everyone is reminded to observe physical distancing of at least one meter, to wear face masks and face shields properly, and to wash or sanitize hands after touching high-touch surfaces.

Proper ventilation in the place of gathering is recommended, while interaction is advised to be limited to only 15 minutes.

For those who attended the celebration, they are advised to isolate oneself for at least 14 days from the other members of the family who did not physically attend any gathering. They are also advised to monitor any COVID-19 symptoms, including fever, colds, lethargy, loss of smell and taste, body aches, headache, sore throat, clogged nose, red eyes, diarrhea, and skin rashes.

Should there be any symptoms as mentioned, one is advised to contact the barangay health emergency response team. The public may also contact DOH’s COVID hotlines at 1555 (for all subscribers), and 02-894-COVID (02-894-26843) or the DOH’s telemedicine partners.

For Central Visayas, one can call or text the DOH CVHD 711 hotline for help, as well as report non-compliance of the COVID-19 health protocols.

Along with this, one is advised to avoid interacting with other people especially with the elderly and vulnerable persons in the household and continue staying in another room.

The LGUs are also reminded that early detection is key in preventing spread of COVID-19, thus active monitoring of constituents is advised.  — KQD (FREEMAN)