Health Ministry warns to avoid direct sun exposure during peak Hajj hours
MAKKAH — The Ministry of Health has issued a critical advisory, urging all Hajj pilgrims to avoid direct sun exposure between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., when temperatures at the holy sites peak so as to enhance the prevention of heat exhaustion and sunstroke among worshipers.
The ministry underscored the vital importance of adhering to several key preventive measures. These include using umbrellas, drinking sufficient amounts of water, and strictly adhering to grouping instructions provided by authorities. These guidelines are integral to the health sector's comprehensive efforts to protect pilgrims and enhance their safety while performing the Hajj rituals.
The Ministry of Health announced on Thursday, the Day of Arafat, a remarkable 90 percent decrease in the number of heat exhaustion cases among pilgrims during the 2025 Hajj season, compared to last year. This significant reduction is attributed to the concerted efforts of the health sector, working in close collaboration with various government agencies, to proactively address health risks.
Even before the pilgrims' movement to Mina, to mark the beginning of the annual pilgrimage of Hajj on Wednesday, the Ministry of Health had intensified its comprehensive field and awareness initiatives to safeguard pilgrims' health and prevent heat stress. This effort aligned with Vision 2030's Health Sector Transformation Program and the Pilgrim Experience Program that aimed for a safe and healthy Hajj.
The ministry cautioned that symptoms of heat stress include headache, dizziness, excessive sweating, thirst, and nausea. Upon noticing these, pilgrims should immediately move to a shaded area, cool down with water, and drink plenty of fluids, it said.
Pilgrims are also advised to avoid direct sun exposure between 10 am and 4 pm, refrain from walking on hot surfaces, and exercise caution when engaging in strenuous activities.
The ministry affirmed that the health sector is highly prepared, with over 34 equipped field health units strategically distributed across the holy sites. These units provide urgent medical care and rapid response for heat stress cases.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Arab News
a day ago
- Arab News
Saudi Arabia lifts global health standing with research milestones, WHO Healthy Cities
Saudi Arabia's national health system continues to strengthen its global standing through a series of significant achievements in scientific research and international recognition. The Ministry of Health highlighted the designation of 16 locations as 'Healthy Cities' under World Health Organization criteria. Among these, Jeddah and Madinah stand out as the first cities in the Middle East with populations of 2 million or more to receive the accreditation, marking a milestone in the ministry's 'Healthy Cities Program' and its efforts to enhance quality of life. The accomplishment reflects successful collaboration among government and community stakeholders through the application of more than 80 international evaluation criteria across nine core domains spanning health, development, and sustainability. Saudi Arabia has also made notable advances in medical research and innovation. A study conducted by King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center on robotic liver transplantation was named one of the 10 most influential research papers of 2024 by the American Society of Transplantation. In addition, seven Saudi hospitals were included in Brand Finance's Global Top 250 Hospitals 2025 report, highlighting the Kingdom's strong healthcare infrastructure, international competitiveness, and commitment to high-quality patient care. These accomplishments are closely aligned with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, particularly the 'A Vibrant Society' and 'A Thriving Economy' pillars to enhance quality of life and support innovation and scientific advancement. Together, the milestones reflect the integrated efforts of the national health system and various sectors, reinforcing the Kingdom's position as a regional hub and global destination for advanced healthcare.
Leaders
a day ago
- Leaders
Makkah Health Cluster Hosts International Workshop on Patient Empowerment
The Makkah Health Cluster has launched a two-day international workshop dedicated to advancing patient empowerment, bringing together leading local and global experts in the field. The event is designed to strengthen patients' roles as active partners in healthcare, improve service quality, enhance patient safety, and promote personal health awareness—while highlighting the importance of prevention before treatment. During the workshop, participants will explore international best practices in patient-centered care and discuss innovative strategies to increase patient involvement in medical decision-making. According to the cluster, this initiative aligns with the Health Sector Transformation Program—one of the key pillars of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030—by fostering safer, more effective healthcare services for all. Related Topics: Health Minister Reviews Major Healthcare Projects in Madinah Saudi Health Offers 1.3 mln Medical Services, Reduces Heat Stress in Hajj 2024 Medina Health Cluster Launches Initiative to Raise Awareness of Heat Stress National Guard Health Prepares Medical Clinics, Sunstroke Center for Hajj 2024 Short link : Post Views: 20 Related Stories
Saudi Gazette
a day ago
- Saudi Gazette
Thirteen dead, dozens injured in Kuwait alcohol poisoning linked to methanol
KUWAIT CITY — Thirteen Asian nationals have died in Kuwait since Saturday from alcohol poisoning caused by methanol-tainted drinks, the Ministry of Health announced Wednesday. The ministry said hospitals treated 63 people for alcohol poisoning over the same period, including 31 patients who required artificial respiration, 51 who underwent urgent dialysis, and 21 who suffered permanent blindness or severe visual impairment. Methanol is a highly toxic industrial alcohol used in chemical manufacturing and paints. The ministry warned that even small amounts can cause blindness or death and urged the public never to consume it. Alcohol imports have been banned in Kuwait since 1964, and consumption was criminalized in the 1980s. Authorities say this has led to a black market in illegal alcoholic beverages, which are often contaminated or produced in unsafe conditions. Officials urged residents to report suspected alcohol poisoning cases through hospitals or approved hotlines and confirmed that investigations are underway to identify the source of the contaminated drinks. Security agencies continue to monitor unlicensed distribution outlets. — Agencies
