Can Halal Meat consumption avoid the spreading of Coronavirus outbreak such as happening around city of Wuhan, China.
At time of writing this article, some 2,000 people were reported to be infected with deadly virus that is believed to be originated from eating snakes. Some of our Muslim friends mind might receive a “beep” notification that all this could be avoided by consuming Halal meat or the product might be non Halaal. How true is your notification?
What is Coronavirus?
The World Health Organization classified Coronaviruses are zoonotic, meaning they are transmitted between animals and people. The common signs of infection include respiratory symptoms, fever, cough, shortness of breath and breathing difficulties. In more severe cases, infection can cause pneumonia, severe acute respiratory syndrome, kidney failure and even death.
Coronaviruses (CoV) are a large family of viruses that cause illness ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV). A novel coronavirus (nCoV) is a new strain that has not been previously identified in humans.
Detailed investigations found that SARS-CoV was transmitted from civet cats to humans and MERS-CoV from dromedary camels to humans. Several known coronaviruses are circulating in animals that have not yet infected humans.
Standard recommendations to prevent infection spread include regular hand washing, covering mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing, thoroughly cooking meat and eggs. Avoid close contact with anyone showing symptoms of respiratory illness such as coughing and sneezing.
What is Halal Meat?
Halal Meat basically prepared through the practices of Islamic slaughtering by invoking a one-line blessing called the Tasmiyah. The Islamic method of killing an animal for meat is called zabiha. After reciting the blessing, the slaughterman uses a surgically sharp instrument to cut the animal’s throat, windpipe and the blood vessels around its neck. The blood is then allowed to drain from the body.
Only one animal can be ritually slaughtered at a time and the other animals must not witness any death.
The religious law also says how the animal must be treated during its life, with the animal not allowed to have been mistreated or caused any pain. It must also be provided with enough space to roam, clean water, food and fresh air.
Do take note that in the context of dietary rules, pork and blood, as well as meat from birds of prey and reptiles, are defined as haram and so forbidden to practicing Muslims.
Can Halal Meat Avoid Spreading of Coronaviruses?
- Middle East Respiratory Syndrome one of coronaviruses type was first reported in Jordan and Saudi Arabia. Researchers have found MERS-CoV in camels from several countries. Studies have shown that direct contact with camels is a risk factor for human infection with MERS-CoV.
- Now, come to Wuhan Coronavirus that said to be originated from snake a reptile that is Haraam for Muslim expect in some cases of exemption. Surah al-A’raf, V: 157; Sunan Abu Dawud, no: 3806. Most reptiles are also considered haram, including chameleons, lizards, and snakes, as are most pests (hasharat al-Ardh) such as mice and rats
The world could have avoided Wuhan coronavirus outbreak should people consumed Halal meat since the source of virus is Haram.
However, the world still need took precautions beyond comsumption of Halal Meat since coronaviruses also transmit by animals that considered Halal.
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