Preparing for the Hajj Season: Health Experts Stress Importance of Wearing Face Masks

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune - www.newsofbahrain.com

As the Hajj season approaches, health experts are underscoring the crucial importance of proper medical preparation to ensure a safe and smooth pilgrimage, especially given the coinciding rise in temperatures.

Dr. Hassan Mohammed, a consultant in internal medicine and critical care, stressed to our sister newspaper Alayam that both psychological and physical preparedness play a vital role in achieving the lofty goals of this esteemed religious obligation, stressing the need for wearing masks in crowded areas, and avoiding close contact as much as possible to mitigate the transmission of contagious illnesses.

Dr. Hassan urged prospective pilgrims to obtain the necessary vaccinations before travel and seek treatment for any minor ailments they may be experiencing. For those with chronic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension, he stressed the need to consult with their healthcare providers prior to the Hajj to ensure their medical readiness, as well as to properly adjust their medication regimens to ensure continuity of care during the pilgrimage.

The expert also highlighted the importance of bringing essential medications during the Hajj and carrying a detailed medical report outlining one's health status. Additionally, he recommended wearing a bracelet with the pilgrim's medical information to ensure prompt emergency care if needed.

Regarding infectious diseases that may arise during the Hajj, Dr. Hassan noted that common ailments include respiratory and gastrointestinal disorders, with the potential for the spread of unusual diseases like dengue fever due to the large gathering of pilgrims. He advised maintaining personal hygiene.

Furthermore, Dr. Hassan cautioned against the risk of foodborne illnesses stemming from the consumption of unclean food, urging pilgrims to be cautious about the quality of their meals and maintain overall cleanliness.

In conclusion, the expert underscored the importance of preventing heat-related illnesses, especially for the elderly, suggesting that wearing light-colored clothing and avoiding direct sun exposure can contribute to the prevention of these serious health conditions.