The most important preventive measures for pilgrims to avoid heat stress and infection
Dr. Nouf Al-Shamlan, a family medicine consultant at Imam Abdulrahman bin Faisal University's Academic Medical City, emphasized the paramount importance of adhering to preventive measures for pilgrims during Hajj. This guidance is part of the commitment to ensuring the safety of the pilgrims and preventing heat exhaustion or infection, thus guaranteeing the safe and complete performance of the pilgrimage.
A History of Care: The Evolution of Health Services in Hajj
Over the decades, crowd management and medical care during the Hajj season have witnessed remarkable development. Historically, gatherings of millions have posed a significant public health challenge, with infectious diseases and heatstroke being among the most prominent risks facing pilgrims. Over time, Saudi Arabia has established a comprehensive healthcare system to address these challenges, shifting the focus from mere treatment to proactive prevention. Today, health awareness is an integral part of the Hajj journey, with millions of Muslims receiving guidance annually on how to protect themselves amidst harsh weather conditions and extreme overcrowding, reflecting a long-standing and ongoing commitment to serving the guests of God.
Dr. Nouf Al-Shamlan
Key preventative measures for pilgrims to avoid complications
Dr. Al-Shamlan explained that heat exhaustion, dehydration, and respiratory infections top the list of common health problems during the season, along with muscle and foot fatigue resulting from prolonged walking in crowded areas. She indicated that maintaining health requires strict adherence to drinking sufficient amounts of water to replace lost fluids and using umbrellas to avoid direct sun exposure, especially during peak hours. She also emphasized the necessity of wearing masks in crowded places, frequent handwashing, strict adherence to taking medications for chronic illnesses regularly, and taking breaks when feeling fatigued or dizzy.
She drew attention to the importance of receiving recommended vaccinations before traveling, such as the meningitis and influenza vaccines, and advised the elderly and those with chronic diseases to consult a doctor to check their health readiness and physical ability to perform the rituals.
Regional and international impact of the success of the health system
The impact of implementing preventive measures extends far beyond the local level within the Holy Sites, encompassing crucial regional and international dimensions. A successful Hajj season from a health perspective means the return of millions of pilgrims to their home countries worldwide in good health, preventing the spread of epidemics and infectious diseases across borders and bolstering global health security. Dr. Al-Shamlan highlighted the Kingdom's tremendous health efforts to provide comprehensive medical care, emphasizing that these services are closely aligned with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 in promoting pilgrims' health and improving their quality of life. She concluded by stressing that health awareness is a fundamental pillar for a safe Hajj journey, and prayed that God would accept the pilgrims' Hajj and their efforts.
