This mass religious gathering has specific and unique health issues and risks. The WHO has published the Ministry of Saudi Arabia requirements and recommendations for entry visas for the Hajj. These include all pilgrims having to be vaccinated against Meningococcal Meningitis, which is a disease spread by droplets from infected people for example through coughing and sneezing. This disease can spread quickly in a mass gathering where close contact is unavoidable. Saudi Arabia will issue visas unless there is proof of vaccination at least 10 days before the date of arrival and has to be submitted with the visa application. Check out the Saudi Ministry of Health website.
Other risks to consider with large numbers of people in a small space are stampedes. Organisation is much improved now with smaller queues and the extension of time limits to perform rituals. However it is sensible to avoid peak times, avoid the most congested areas and always be aware of emergency exits.
Heat in Saudi Arabia is intense so the risk of heatstroke and heat exhaustion are common. Ensure adequate bottled water supply to prevent dehydration, wear a high factor sunscreen, seek the shade where possible and try and perform rituals at night or when the day is cooler. As stated above with a large gathering many infectious diseases can spread quickly when people from all over the world mingle together.
Influenza vaccine is recommended and is available at The Travel Clinic Ltd. Simple measures like washing your hands regularly, avoiding sick looking people and sneezing into a tissue help stop the spread of disease. Diarrhoea is very common so eat food that is cooked and served hot and drink only bottled water.
Protect yourself from Polio and Hepatitis A which are spread by contaminated food and water by getting vaccinated before you go, available at the travel clinic. Male pilgrims who have their heads shaved should go to officially designated centres which use single use blades only. Finally, be aware of mosquito borne diseases such as malaria and dengue fever, keep covered up, use Deet based repellents and EX4 clothing spray.
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