Dr. Nouf Al Shamlan, from the Family and Community Medicine Center at the Academic Medical City of
Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, emphasized that Hajj is one of the largest human gatherings in the world, bringing together millions of people from different countries within a short period. This makes health awareness and adherence to preventive measures essential for ensuring a safe and healthy pilgrimage.
She explained that the most common health issues during Hajj include heat exhaustion, dehydration, respiratory infections, and muscle and foot fatigue caused by prolonged walking and crowded conditions. She noted that following preventive guidelines significantly helps reduce health complications and emergency cases.
Dr. Al Shamlan added that maintaining good health during Hajj requires several simple measures, including drinking adequate amounts of water, using an umbrella to avoid direct sun exposure, especially during peak hours, maintaining personal hygiene by washing hands regularly, wearing a face mask in crowded places, taking prescribed medications for chronic conditions consistently, and resting when experiencing fatigue or dizziness.
She stressed the importance of receiving the recommended vaccinations before Hajj, including the meningococcal and seasonal influenza vaccines, and urged older adults and people with chronic diseases to consult their physicians before traveling to ensure they are medically prepared.
She also highlighted the Kingdom’s efforts, in line with
Saudi Vision 2030, to promote pilgrims’ health through the development of healthcare and preventive services and the provision of integrated medical care. She concluded by emphasizing that health awareness remains a cornerstone of a safe Hajj journey.