The novel coronavirus has killed more than 3,000 people so far and infected nearly 90,000 individuals worldwide. Countries around the world have been taking serious measures to restrict the spread of the virus, also known as COVID-19. The UAE had previously advised people to avoid the traditional nose-to-nose greeting amid the outbreak; France recently recommended people stop shaking hands altogether.

On Friday, France's Health Minister Olivier Veran said it's best that people refrain from handshaking to prevent further spread of the coronavirus as the number of cases in the country reached 57 that day. The number of infected patients in France rose to 100 on Saturday. Two patients have died.

"The virus is now circulating on our territory ... I recommend that, for now, people do not shake hands," said Veran, according to Reuters.

The country has since banned large indoor gatherings (of more than 5,000 people) and has closed Paris' famed Louvre Museum with no confirmation on when it will reopen.

France is finally taking things seriously - as other countries are still in denial of the risks - but its recent decision couldn't help but hit a nerve. Why? Because in France, a virus allows for a handshake to be avoided, but one's religious beliefs don't. You're probably confused, so let me explain.