Summer is a time for celebration and coming together – Happy Eid al-Adha

With Eid ul-Adha this weekend and other summer festivities just around the corner, many people are looking forward to celebrating with loved ones, and the chance to come together to recite our prayers and savour delicious meals.  

For many others, the long summer months ahead offer the prospect of fun days out, relaxing holidays and memorable times with our family and friends. We all want to make the most of it and whilst there’s nothing we can do to improve the British weather, there are a few things we can think about so we’re able to enjoy our time off.

Making a few little changes to your routine, or taking health advice, will help you be on top form, regardless of whether you’re living with a long-term health condition, feeling a bit under the weather, or have any worries about your health or fitness. And taking precautions around Covid-19 when you’re out and about will help make it a summer to remember for the right reasons.

Celebrating safely

Many community celebrations and events are returning this year after a two-year absence due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

The summer is set with more events planned, including celebrations with traditional dance, music and food. With social gatherings like these returning as a part of normal life again, Covid-19 may seem like a distant memory but with transmission rates rising across England, we must remain cautious.

Dr Nikki Kanani, a GP and Medical Director of Primary Care for NHS England, urges people to remember to stay safe when out and about, taking easy, simple steps to protect themselves and others.

She says: “Whilst we’re enjoying the hot and sunny weather, it’s easy for us to believe that Covid-19 has gone away. Even though we may be hearing less about it, the virus is still with us, and growing numbers of people are being infected. But there are things we can do to protect ourselves, our families and friends.

“Of course, we want to celebrate and spend time with loved ones during the summer, and when celebrating religious events that are important to us, such as Eid, Janmashtami or Paryushan. But if you feel unwell, please stay at home and avoid mixing with others, particularly with elderly family members or those with weakened immune systems who are at greater risk of complications from Coronavirus.”

Dr Hina J Shahid (General Practitioner and Chairperson for the Muslim Doctors Association) says: “Data shows that vaccines have been extremely effective in preventing serious illness and death from COVID-19. We have been working with local communities to encourage people to have all of their vaccines. Through sharing information and helping people to have their vaccinations, leaders in all of our Asian communities have made a huge difference in helping to save lives.

“Vaccines have gone through rigorous testing, including on people from our community, so we can trust it to protect us against the virus. It’s also not too late to have your first, second or initial booster dose.

“These are free, you don’t need to be registered with a GP, and you also don’t need to have an appointment. Simply check online for a convenient vaccination walk-in site near you and drop in. If you’re still unsure about the vaccine, please ask a health professional who can answer any questions you might have.” 

Get more information on the NHS website at www.nhs.uk, or by using the NHS App.