The warnings come from Al-Arab Al-Yawm columnist Taher Adwan, who wrote yesterday about several Jordanian traditions that can be considered dangerous, especially now after the first two Swine Flu cases were found in Jordan.

The writer theorizes that Jordanians should stop some of their social traditions and activities in order to prevent spreading of Swine flu in Jordan.

The traditions "accused" by the article are:
1- Eating Mansaf by hands. Mansaf is the national dish of Jordan and is eaten exclusively by hand, but according to the writer this is the right time for Jordanians to stop.
2- Cheek kissing and hand shaking. In case of "necessity" hands should be cleaned with anti-germ soap.
3- Use of the same coffee cup. Coffee is probably the most important symbol of hospitality in Jordan, when served, it is put in a single tiny ceramic cup and offered to several guests, especially in important occasions like weddings and funerals. According to Adwan Jordanians should refuse drinking coffee in these situations.

I know that what the article asks for is widely acceptable in terms of hygiene and health, but are Jordanians ready to say good bye to their "bad" habits and accept this? I hope that.

Labels: Jordan, What's on the web