As Muslims begin to prepare for the month of Ramadan, the NHS has issued a reminder to those who observe the Islamic holy month to avoid social gatherings because of the risk of coronavirus.

The coronavirus restrictions are still very likely to be place by Eid, so the key message remains: stay at home, protect our NHS and save lives.

People are being urged to make use of online platforms and alternative approaches to communicate with family and friends and stick with government guidelines regarding social distancing.

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Stay home, save lives

The only reasons you can leave your home:

• to shop for basic essentials – only when you really need to
• to do one form of exercise a day – such as a run, walk or cycle, alone or with other people you live with
• for any medical need – for example, to visit a pharmacy or deliver essential supplies to a vulnerable person
• to travel to and from work – but only where this is absolutely necessary

If you have:

• a high temperature – you feel hot to touch on your chest or back
• a new, continuous cough – this means you’ve started coughing repeatedlyyou should stay at home and follow the isolation guidance for households with possible coronavirus infection.

Gatherings of more than two people in public – including religious gatherings (except for funerals) – are banned. It is important that you follow this guidance, you could be fined if you do not.

If you are concerned about infection call NHS 111 for advice.