Hajj August 2019: Travel tips for total health package
class lounges and all food to be eaten and water to be drunk, inspect, smell and decline if suspect and not fresh.
In the plane, head rest with yeast and mold can cause skin problems instead wear a scarf if possible. Viruses and bacteria circulating in the cabin increase your chances of catching cold and other respiratory infections.
If someone is sneezing or coughing near you, try to hold your breath and dip your head down or use a handkerchief which may help reduce contaminants into your lungs. You can wipe down your tray table with sanitary wipes and please be careful of seat pockets some may have been contaminated with all sorts of items including soiled baby diapers. Do not put anything like your cell phone and close use items into those pouches. Use 70 percent alcohol hand sanitizers as frequently as possible.
On arrival in Mecca, always obey the local laws, do’s and don’ts and you should have a great spiritual experience. The Hajj is well organised and at each stage of your trip, keep well hydrated and follow all instructions.
If you feel ill or fall ill, report it immediately to the authorities. If you are a traveller with special needs please inform your imam, doctor and the Saudi authorities. You will be well catered for.
If you are pregnant, please consult. I am not sure you should embark on the Hajj. Take care of your personal safety and security. Though Saudi is relatively safe and stable you have people coming from all over the world. Not all with good intentions. Monitor the weather conditions regularly.
Meanwhile in excessive heat you should drink a lot more water probably with a pinch of salt. Avoid the direct rays of the sun as much as possible. You are meant to be well covered so do so.
Why should you be concerned? Large crowds in small areas can increase your risk of getting sick and/or being injured. Overcrowding can increase the risk of infections such as meningococcal disease, influenza and pneumonia. Pilgrims performing the Hajj may also be at risk of exposure to infectious diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Corona virus (MERS-COV), diphtheria, measles and cholera.
There is currently an extensive outbreak of Cholera in Africa and Western Asia including the country of Yemen, which shares a border with Saudi Arabia. Also, note that cases of MERS-COV are still being reported in Saudi Arabia and other countries, mostly located in the Arabian Peninsula.
Before your trip: All travelers should see a healthcare professional or visit a travel health clinic, preferably 6 weeks before travel. on the other hand, Find a travel health clinic near you or make sure your routine vaccines and adult boosters, including measles, are up-to-date.
Also, pack a travel health kit and consider purchasing insurance. If you take regular medicines, make sure you take enough to cover the whole time you will be away and carry a doctor’s letter to avoid confusion at customs.
Visit the Saudi Arabia Ministry of Health website for health requirements and recommendations for travellers to Saudi Arabia for Hajj and Umrah for information on required vaccinations and other health recommendations:
The quadrivalent meningococcal vaccine ( ACYW- 135) is required for all travelers
The polio and yellow fever vaccines are required for travelers from certain countries including Nigeria
The Saudi Arabia Ministry of Health recommends that children, pregnant women and epileptic patients whose illness cannot be controlled with medication postpone attending the Hajj.