BY Joven Tungala
The Department of Health on Monday issued a reminder to the public, especially those who are planning to make jokes or pranks related to illness, death, and physical or mental conditions, on April Fool’s Day.
“The Department of Health acknowledges that in many cultures, the first day of April is often called April Fool’s Day – a day when there is an outbreak of pranks or jokes,” the department said in a statement.
“First, do no harm. The DOH urges all would-be pranksters to please avoid jokes related to illness, disease, and other physical or mental conditions; most especially about the loss of life. Doing so adds to stigma we want less of,” it added.
It continued: “There can be considerate and wholesome fun. Always be kind to each other, and please have a Happy April Fool’s Day!”
April Fools’ Day, observed annually on April 1st, is a tradition that involves playing practical jokes and hoaxes. Those who play pranks often reveal their actions by shouting “April Fools!” to the person they have tricked.
TAGS: ###DOH
