Q. With the current Corona virus outbreak, authorities have advised limited physical contact with each other. What would be advised in terms of greeting our fellow Muslim brothers?
A. In normal circumstances, it is recommended (Mustahab) for one to shake/join hands (Musaafaha) when one Muslim meets another Muslim. However, in the current circumstances, one would be excused for not shaking or joining hands when meeting others out of precaution.
In the situation where a person is confirmed to have an infectious disease, like the Corona virus, it is considered Makrooh (disliked) to shake or join hands with them. (Mawsooah Fiqhhiyya 37/356 – Fiqhul Islami Waadillatuhu 4/2661)
In the current outbreak of the Corona virus, one should suffice by simply making Salaam without shaking or joining hands.
Allah Ta’ala Knows Best
Mufti Ismaeel Bassa