Have a safe and happy Raksha Bandhan

Monday 3 August marks this traditional festival celebrated amongst Hindi and Sikh communities known as Raksha Bandhan or Rakhi. It is a day to celebrate the bond between brothers and sisters.

Traditionally, sisters tie a thread, called a Rakhi, on the wrist of their brothers to symbolise protection and good wishes. This year, more families will need to do this virtually or use the post to get gifts to their loved ones.

Staying alert during this festival will help to protect family, friends and communities from COVID-19. Many communities have had to adapt how they celebrate different festivals, and other important occasions. It is important that people continue to follow government guidelines during this time, while still celebrating what is important to them.

People should:

• only socialise indoors with members of up to two households, or ideally meet virtually

• continue to follow strict social distancing guidelines when they are with anyone not in their household or support bubble.
• practise frequent hand washing, for 20 seconds
• wherever possible, not pass each other food or drink unless they live together or are in a support bubble together. All plates and utensils should be thoroughly cleaned before use.

Those gifting a Rakhi should:

• ask a household member to tie the rakhi on their behalf
• not pass sweets or food to each other unless living together or are in a support bubble

Families unable to celebrate together at this time can meet virtually and should consider posting a Rakhi.

Bal Kaur, director of public health, Dudley Council said:

Celebrations like this are so important as they help to unite families and celebrate a family’s love. This year, people can show they love one another by taking these extra precautions, even to the extent of reducing their face to face contact to those in their support bubble. We know that celebrating Raksha Bandhan is an important occasion for many of our communities but it’s important to remember that the virus is still with us and we need to do all we can to protect ourselves and our family and friends.

Stephen Gunther, Director of Public Health at Walsall added:

Happy Rakhsa Bandhan to all those celebrating. It’s important to remember that we all play a part in the continuing fight against Covid-19 and I would encourage all residents taking part in this celebration to do so safely, taking on board the national guidance to keep ourselves and our loved ones safe.

John Denley, Wolverhampton’s Director of Public Health, said:

It’s important that we all play our part in the continuing fight against Covid-19. These measures aren’t forever, but taking these steps now, even if it means we can’t be with our nearest and dearest is essential if we are to slow and stop this disease.

People must not leave home if they, or someone they live with has any of the following:

a high temperature

a new, continuous cough

a loss of, or change to, your sense of smell or taste

Visit www.gov.uk/coronavirus for all the latest information