Dr. Naelah Abuljadayel, a consultant physician of pulmonological diseases, has mentioned that among the most important pulmonological diseases which we must be prepared for and prevent during the Hajj season are pneumonia, asthma (chest allergy), and seasonal influenza; confirming that the Ministry of Health (MOH) has provided the necessary medicines to treat such diseases, thank Allah!
She also confirmed that the patient (pilgrim) must pay a visit to the relevant doctor before heading to the Holy Sites in case they were suffering from any of the chronic diseases such as: diabetes, blood pressure, heart diseases, chest diseases, and asthma. And the relevant medicines must be in the pilgrim's handbag. Dr. Abuljadayel while interviewed by the MOH Media Information and Health Awareness Center, within the framework of the program dubbed: “Pilgrims' Health Is our Concern” to reply to the question-senders who are to perform the Hajj and others.
Dr. Abuljadayel has drawn attention to the importance of taking quadruple meningococcal vaccine, which is obligatory for health workers, chosen for the 1433H Hajj program and performers of Hajj rituals (both citizens and residents). She also stated that the vaccination does not include those who were vaccinated in the past two years with a combination or polysaccharide vaccine, and it is recommended to take the vaccine at least ten days before the Hajj.
Furthermore, she underscored the importance of taking the seasonal influenza vaccine to vaccinate the most vulnerable groups to the complications of the disease; especially those with chronic respiratory diseases, heart diseases resulting from high blood pressure (hypertension), chronic kidney diseases, endocrinology and diabetes. And people who use drugs affecting the immunity, the children aging six-month old to eighteen-year old who take aspirin for a long time and are prone to Reye Syndrome after getting injured with the seasonal influenza. Also, those aged 50 years and over, pregnant women, and nursing crew who provide home care for a long time, children, and the adults who suffer from the immunity deficiency resulting from taking immunosuppressive drugs or those suffering from HIV, in addition to all the people living with the most vulnerable groups to get injured with the disease complications or those in contact with such groups.
Dr. Abuljadayel, also, advised pilgrims to keep away from crowding as much as possible, not to expose directly to the sun, and to use the umbrella when walking. In addition, she advised pilgrims to drink much water and drinks (such as juices), as well as having well-cooked foods, which are covered well to keep them away from flies and insects, and to eat much fruits and vegetables.
She highlighted the necessity that the pilgrims should head to the nearest health facility of those provided by the government of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, when they feel unwell, as the health centers and hospitals are available in the entire Holy Sites, those which the pilgrims frequent to with the aim to perform the Hajj rites.