Breaking the fast is one of the most awaited moments when entering the month of Ramadan. Not only to quench thirst, breaking the fast is also used as a place to let go of longing for the closest people.
Apart from the euphoria, one important thing that must be considered is the implementation of health protocols. Because even though the policy has been relaxed, the threat of transmission of the Covid-19 virus is still there, especially when eating outside.
For those of you who want to break the fast together, here are 6 steps to protect yourself from the threat of the Covid-19 virus.
Make sure your hands are clean
Even if it looks clean, it still doesn't guarantee that your hands are free from bacteria. The condition of the dirty hands and then used for activities, especially eating, will only facilitate the entry of bacteria into the body.
Therefore, make sure you wash your hands before or after eating. Apply proper hand washing techniques so as not to reduce the effectiveness in eradicating germs.
Ensure the Cleanliness of Cutlery
If you usually easily bring your personal cutlery at the office, then what about when you eat at a restaurant?
Reporting from The Conversation page, you don't always have to bring cutlery because the virus can actually die by cleaning it with water and soap.
When breaking the fast outside, use a clean tissue to wipe the cutlery while spraying disinfectant on the table surface being used.
Take off the mask only when eating
Too busy chatting sometimes makes us underestimate the protocol, one of which is lowering the mask. As a result, bacteria that were originally attached to the chin move and are carried into the mouth.
No matter how enthusiastic you are, remove the mask only when breaking the fast and the rest leave the mask covering your nose and mouth. Citing the Healthline page, a perfectly protected nose and mouth can reduce the risk of transmitting the virus when outdoors.
Use Non-Cash Payment Method
As a means of payment, money can be easily touched from one hand to another. The transfer process is what causes germs to easily stick to the surface of the money.
Instead, use the cashless method every time you make a purchase. If this is not possible, make sure you wash your hands immediately after receiving the money. Even though the risk of transmission is relatively low, it's a good idea to stay alert in the midst of a pandemic.
Avoid Closed Dining
Reporting from the Washington Post page, being in a closed room is more at risk of contracting it because of less circulation.
Choose a place to break the fast with good air circulation so that virus particles are easily destroyed. Besides being safer, outdoor dining places also provide many views so that iftar feels more enjoyable.
Adhere to Health Protocols Correctly
Spending a lot of time outdoors, especially having to remove a mask, indirectly increases the risk of being exposed to the Covid-19 virus. Therefore, always apply health protocols during iftar outside.
Choose a seat that is not too crowded and always keep your distance. Comply with health regulations by meeting the need for vaccines to carrying out swab tests when you are symptomatic, to protect yourself and also others.