WHO Urges Outdoor Religious Gatherings for Easter and Ramadan Amid COVID-19 Concerns

In a few hours, Christians will celebrate Easter, while Muslims are preparing to begin the fast of the month of Ramadan in mid-April. Fearing a relaxation at a time when several countries do not tolerate any breach of restrictions in order to limit Covid-19 cases, the WHO, through a press release, warns: "Wherever they are, all religious ceremonies should be held outdoors whenever possible, or be limited in size and duration, taking into account physical distancing, ventilation, hand hygiene and the use of masks." And the institution adds that "serious consideration should be given to holding virtual meetings and postponing gatherings or reducing the number of people gathered."

The statement advises those organizing religious ceremonies to do so in a closed circle, i.e. with the people they live with, and to avoid any contact with other people experiencing Covid-19 symptoms or in quarantine. "Indoor gatherings, even the smallest in number, can be particularly risky," the document concludes.