• As of the time of the release of this statement, there is no reason for masajid and Islamic centers to suspend congregational prayers, including Friday prayers. If local authorities issue the need to avoid public places including worship houses, then we must comply with that recommendation. In the event we are unable to hold Friday prayer, it can be replaced by the usual Dhuhr prayer (4 Rakaas) at home until the restriction is removed.

• Those with symptoms of the illness, especially those who have traveled recently are advised to pray at home. 

• “High-risk individuals”, such as the elderly and those with chronic illnesses, are allowed to skip Friday prayers.  

• It must be emphasized that Friday prayers and congregational prayers are not required of women and children, and thus they are advised to avoid coming to the masjid until this crisis resolves. 

• It is advised to avoid kissing, hugging and handshaking amongst worshippers and follow other proper precautions to prevent the transmission of the disease.

• It is advised that masajid should make available ample amounts of hands sanitizers. Sanitizers are considered pure (tahir) even if they state they contain alcohol no matter what the percentage. If someone wants to be extra cautious they can wash their hands afterward.

• Masajid are advised to sanitize the carpet frequently as a precautionary “infection-control” measure.

• Masjid management reserves the right to prevent people who are suspected to have the Coronavirus infection from entering the Masjid as this imposes a high public health hazard.

• Masjid management should follow these updates that are periodically issued by public health agencies such as CDC coronavirus hotline 1-800-CDC-INFO (1-800-232-4636), Option #8. Information is also available on the CDC website https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html and comply with their instructions.

• For more details of Islamic guidelines on this matter, please visit the more detailed statement at the link below.