RIYADH: The Minister of Health, Fahd Al-Jalajel has announced the successful execution of health management efforts during the Hajj season of 2024, the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported. According to the SPA, this achievement was made possible through the coordinated efforts of the health system and the Hajj security forces, with no recorded widespread diseases or outbreaks of epidemic. Notably, the health system provided more than 465,000 specialized treatment services, including 141,000 services to those who didn’t obtain official authorization to perform Hajj, the SPA added.
In an interview with media, the Minister expressed reassurance regarding the overall health condition of the pilgrims despite the high temperatures experienced in the Holy Sites. Fahd Al-Jalajel highlighted the positive impact of the health authorities’ rapid response and the effective support of the Hajj security forces in managing and decreasing the effects of heat stress.
The health system has addressed numerous cases of heat stress this year, with some individuals still under care, the SPA reported. Regrettably, the number of mortalities reached 1,301, with 83% being unauthorized to perform Hajj and having walked long distances under direct sunlight without adequate shelter or comfort, according to the SPA. Among the deceased were several elderly and chronically ill people, the SPA reported.
Al-Jalajel highlighted the significant efforts made by the competent authorities to raise awareness on the dangers of heat stress and the significance of preventive measures. The Minister extended his condolences, saying, “May Allah forgive and have mercy on the deceased. Our heartfelt condolences go to their families. May Allah accept their deeds and grant them recompense for their suffering. All reports have been compiled, families of the deceased notified, and identification completed, despite the initial lack of personal information or identification documents. Proper processes were followed for identification, burial, and honoring the deceased, with death certificates provided.”
The Minister also detailed that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s (KSA) provision of free health services to Hajj pilgrims commenced even before their arrival, with awareness programs at air, sea, and land border crossings. Approximately 1.3 million preventive services were provided, including early detection, vaccinations, and medical care upon arrival, the SPA reported.
The healthcare services have also offered included open-heart surgeries, dialysis, cardiac catheterization, and emergency care, totaling more than 30,000 ambulance services, with 95 air ambulance operations ensuring the delivery of advanced health services in medical cities across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). Additionally, the healthcare system has made available about 6,500 beds and rooms. Steps to combat heat stress included the development of devices that enable rapid and effective rescue of affected individuals, the SPA reported.
