Q. I work as a nurse and caregiver in a major old age retirement home were many Jewish people reside. We have had ‘lo alenu’ many deceased victims of Covid at the institution. Also a significant number of the healthcare staff became ill and some actually also passed away. Therefore a consequential number quit and we are very short of the needed team. I’m afraid to continue attending myself and my family is also demanding that I cease and stay home as the risk is eminent. What does the Halacha recommend in such a case.
A. Horav Shlomo Miller’s Shlit’a opinion is that since you are actually saving lives, specially since others are not willing to take the risk, if you can reasonably and rationally protect yourself properly and follow the advanced medical advice, also adding to it, you should continue your heroic work. Take into account that there is no greater mitzva than saving a life and Hashem protects those who do so and rewards them accordingly. (The Rov suggested to also wear a double mask).
Rabbi A. Bartfeld as advised by Horav Shlomo Miller and Horav Aharon Miller Shlit’a