Practices for COVID-19 Prevention of Muslim Communities in Three Southern Border Provinces

Abstract

This qualitative study aimed to examine the practices to prevent COVID-19 among Muslim communities in three southern border provinces. Purposive sampling was used for participant selection. Data were collected through documentation, in-depth interviews, and observation in three communities: 1) communities in Mueang district, Pattani province; 2) communities adjacent to the Malaysia border, specifically communities in Su-ngai Kolok district, and 3) communities in Waeng district, Narathiwat province. Data triangulation was conducted to validate the data. The data were analyzed, concluded, and presented through descriptive analysis. The study found that the practices of Muslim communities in three southern border provinces for preventing COVID-19 included maintaining physical distancing with others in both normal and critical situation, wearing facial masks in public more often than within households due to community-based communication processes, and regularly washing hands, especially after visiting high-risk areas. Additionally it was noted that Muslim community believes that taking a bath is a practice to prevent the spreading of COVID-19 as well as a religious practice before prayer. The communities also reduced physical contact between individuals in both public and household areas and boosted immunity by taking herbal medicines, exercising, and getting vaccinated.