Saudi health minister: No epidemic threats detected during Hajj season so far, no risk of outbreaks

Arab News

26-05-2025

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia's Minister of Health Fahad Al-Jalajel confirmed on Monday that there have been no public health concerns during the Hajj season so far and that the public health situation remains stable.
'We are pleased to announce that no epidemic cases have been detected so far and there is no risk for outbreak of diseases. The health and safety of pilgrims remain our highest priority,' said Al-Jalajel in an official statement.
He said the Kingdom is proactively preparing to ensure a safe pilgrimage experience for everyone and the health ministry continues to closely monitor the health situation.
Saudi Arabia's extensive preparedness has been guided by the directives of King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and is made possible by close cooperation across public, private, and non-governmental sectors, the ministry said.
Saudi Arabia began Hajj readiness months in advance, conducting global health risk assessments for diseases such as yellow fever, polio, and meningitis. These efforts led to the implementation of strict health entry requirements and the introduction of new 'health capability' criteria to ensure pilgrims are medically fit to perform their rituals safely, the ministry added.
Al-Jalajel thanked all countries for cooperating and adhering to the guidelines. 'Our story with Hajj is long-standing, but every year we write a new chapter—with greater readiness, deeper awareness, and smarter technology,' the minister said.
Health teams have been stationed at 14 entry points across land, air, and sea to provide immediate medical services since the first flight under the Makkah Route Initiative arrived, the ministry said.
So far, over 50,000 healthcare services have been delivered, including 140 surgeries, 65 cardiac catheterizations, and six open-heart procedures.
As part of preventative measures against extreme heat, the Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites has planted over 10,000 trees, expanded shaded walkways, and installed 400 water stations and mist fans.
The Ministry has also launched many multilingual public health awareness raising campaigns through media, field engagement, and international medical missions.
It has also significantly boosted the health infrastructure at the holy sites. Bed capacity has increased by 60 percent compared to last year. A new emergency hospital with 200 beds was recently inaugurated in Mina, while three field hospitals — totaling more than 1,200 beds — were deployed in collaboration with the Ministries of Defense, Interior, and National Guard.
This year has also seen the highest-ever private sector involvement in Hajj healthcare, with three major private hospitals operating at the holy sites.
To ensure rapid emergency responses, 11 medical evacuation aircraft, 900 ambulances, and 71 new emergency points have been activated, with more than 7,500 paramedics on the ground.
Advanced digital solutions are being deployed, including smart monitoring devices for high-risk pilgrims connected to Seha Virtual Hospital and telemedicine services for remote consultations. More than 50,000 healthcare and technical professionals are behind these efforts.
In a direct message to pilgrims, Al-Jalajel said: 'You are the most important part of Hajj. Your awareness, prevention, and responsibility matter. Stay hydrated, avoid prolonged walking and overcrowded areas, wear your mask, use an umbrella, and follow movement instructions. If you feel unwell, seek help immediately. We are always by your side.'
'Awareness, prevention, and responsibility are not only personal choices—but religious and humanitarian obligations to protect the health and safety of all pilgrims,' he added.