Precautions for the Hajj pilgrimage
If you have planned and are anticipating that once-in-a-lifetime trip to Mecca, or are seriously thinking of it for next year, you should keep the following few things in mind healthwise….
Pilgrims may suffer from minor health concerns such as a sore throat, the ‘Hajj Cough’, sneezing, runny nose, fever and diarrhoea. Influenza, or the flu, is also a concern, and the Ministry of Health of Saudi Arabia recommends flu vaccinations for those making the pilgrimage.
However, a real risk in such a crowded environment (over 6 million pilgrims can be known to circle the Kaaba shrine per day during Hajj each year) is Meningitis. This disease is an inflammation on the surface of the brain and is spread through direct contact or by inhaling infected droplets. It can become quite serious and even fatal if left untreated. As prevention is the best course for this disease, the Ministry of Health requires all pilgrims aged two and over to show proof of vaccination against Meningococcal Meningitis strains A,C,W135 and Y for the purposes of Hajj and Umrah. Vaccination is also required for obtaining a visa, and the vaccination must have been administered no fewer than ten days before arrival in Saudi Arabia.
In order to prepare for your once-in-a-lifetime journey, you might want to consider a sensible exercise plan that will enable you to walk great distances in hot weather. It is recommended to wear a mask to cover your nose and mouth to help prevent infection. Investing in good quality, comfortable walking shoes that will protect your feet from getting burned on the hot sand is also wise, as is planning ahead to ensure access to good clean drinking water that will prevent you from becoming dehydrated. Men should make sure that if they participate in the rite of head shaving that a new blade is used, as otherwise they run the risk of catching a blood borne disease such as Hepatitis B or C.
As always, Nomad Travel Clinic nurses are here to help with vaccinations for flu and Meningitis ACWY, as well as advising on a good basic medical kit to bring along in case of the odd minor mishap or illness, as carrying your own supplies is much easier than trying to get to a pharmacy.
Have a safe and unforgettable Hajj pilgrimage!
Nomad Bishop’s Stortford
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