DOHA: With many people travelling to Saudi Arabia for Umrah during Ramadan, Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) has highlighted simple steps they can take to ensure they are safeguarded against infectious diseases.
“Pilgrims should remember to take precautions prior to travel, during journey and after travel,” said Dr Saad Al Nuaimi, Senior Consultant in Emergency Medicine, HMC.
“Respiratory illnesses, including sinuses, and throat and lung infections caused by viruses are the most common illnesses contacted during Umrah as they spread rapidly among crowds.
“Pilgrims should follow simple ‘cough hygiene’ precautions. This includes use of tissue paper when coughing or sneezing and disposing it off carefully, washing hands frequently with soap and water, and avoiding hand contact with the eyes, nose and mouth as much as possible,” Dr Al Nuaimi said.
However, he recommends urgent medical advice in case of breathing problems.
He said if certain precautions are taken, pilgrims can remain safe from contacting the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV), a major illness of increasing concern in the region.
“The virus has been reported to spread from person to person through extended close contacts, so it is advisable to avoid direct contact with people who exhibit symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, running nose, vomiting and diarrhoea,” he said.
World Health Organisation recommends that pilgrims should consult a healthcare provider to review risks and determine if Umrah should be performed.
“Certain people may postpone pilgrimage for safety. This includes those above 65, pregnant women and children under 12, or anyone with chronic diseases such as cancer, diabetes, heart, kidney, respiratory problems or immune deficiency,” Dr Al Nuaimi said.
While performing Umrah, it is important to remember that daytime temperatures can be very high, and illnesses such as severe sunburn, dehydration, exhaustion and heat stroke can occur.
“Pilgrims should ensure they remain well hydrated, drink plenty of clean water, preferably bottled or boiled and cooled. Other steps include applying high protection sunscreen (at least SPF 15) regularly, and carrying umbrellas to shade away sunlight.”
He said the risk of trauma and injuries is heightened with the influx of pilgrims to Makkah during Ramadan.
“Pilgrims can assure their safety by avoiding peak times to circumambulate and choosing times when the number of people is likely to be lesser,” he said.
When men shave their heads after Umrah, they must ensure that clean blades are used. “Unclean shaving blades can transmit blood-borne viruses, such as hepatitis B and C and HIV. Pilgrims should never share shaving blades,” he said.
Other precautions include carrying first aid kits containing plasters, dressings, and painkillers, regular medicines, copies of prescriptions, and a doctor’s letter that describes the pilgrim’s medical history.
Dr Al Nuaimi said that upon return, if any pilgrim develops an illness and notices worsening symptoms, especially severe fever, cough or breathing problems, then the person should seek immediate assistance from a care centre. “The person should remember to mention the Umrah visit to the physician.”
The Peninsula
