Should One Fast if Infected by COVID-19 Virus?

People observing the fast during the Holy Month of Ramadan are expected to do so, unless if a person is vulnerable to any diseases, the country’s Assistant Grand Mufti has said.

Speaking exclusively to Times of Oman, on the context of fasting during the Holy Month, Sheikh Kahlan Al Kharusi, said, “If you are sick, fasting should be taken on the advice of medical practitioners.”

He also said: “There is no difference between the COVID-19 pandemic and any other illness. If a person is sick, and has received advice from his or her doctors, then we highly recommend them to not do so.”

He also dismissed the idea of people falling sick by fasting during the current situation. “If they don't fast, they are committing a sin,” he said.

He also said: “It has been proven that fasting during the Holy Month of Ramadan has no negative effect on the body’s immunity. It does not decrease the immunity of people – it is actually the opposite. This regular fasting increases the immunity of individuals, provided they are healthy. There is no special ruling regarding this pandemic and its effect on fasting during Ramadan.”

Sheikh Kahlan also recommended that those who are unable to fast during Ramadan due to sickness, can fast later.

He also advised everyone to perform their prayers at home because of the pandemic. “It is highly recommended and it is a great opportunity for all Muslims now, to do their prayers with their family members,” he said.

Reference:

https://timesofoman.com/article/3014086/oman/dont-fast-if-infected-by-the-virus-omans-assistant-grand-mufti (with little edition as they misinterpret the Shaikh’s fatwa).