International SOS announced a comprehensive guideline to ensure the health, security and well-being of Hajj pilgrims this year.
The guideline, aligned with the latest health and safety regulations established by the Saudi Arabian authorities, highlights the official permit and vaccination requirements, heat mitigation strategies as well as promoting vigilance and awareness of surroundings to ensure individual safety, particularly during crowd surges.
The annual Hajj pilgrimage, a global gathering attracting over 1.8 million participants last year, is expected to take place in Saudi Arabia from 14 to 19 June 2024.
“Due to the large scale of the event, ensuring the health and safety of all pilgrims requires a focus on preventive measures,” International SOS, a leading global health and security services company, said in a media release.
The company said it encourages organisations with employees participating in the Hajj pilgrimage to ensure their workforce is aware of essential precautions for a safe and healthy spiritual journey.
Dr Nosa Aihie, Regional Medical Director, Middle East, at International SOS, said it is important for pilgrims to adhere to vaccination requirements listed by the government of Saudi Arabia to protect themselves and their peers from various infectious diseases.
“This includes the required vaccination against meningitis administered no more than three years and at least ten days prior to the planned arrival in Saudi Arabia,” Aihie said.
The guideline also suggested scheduling activities to avoid peak heat hours whenever possible and being adequately hydrated during Hajj, as pilgrims may experience heat-related illnesses and dehydration.
Besides vaccination and health certificates, the Hajj 2024 health and safety guidelines by International SOS include ensuring compliance with regulations, with companies encouraging employees to always follow guidance and adhere to designated time slots allocated by authorities to help minimise overcrowding risks, offering pre-departure briefings on security protocols, situational awareness practices and cultural sensitivities and developing contingency plans to address potential travel disruptions during the Hajj.
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