DOHA: An expert from Supreme Council of Health (SCH) has advised people suffering from chronic diseases and those with low immunity to postpone travelling to Saudi Arabia this year for Haj and Umrah.
The advisory follows similar instructions issued by Saudi authorities recently in the wake of the MERS — Middle East Respiratory Syndrome — outbreak that led to the death of several people, mostly in Saudi Arabia.
Addressing a workshop held by SCH yesterday for health workers associated with Haj and Umrah trips, Dr Hamad Al Rumaihi from advised all the vulnerable segments to postpone Haj and Umrah this year.
These segments include the elderly, pregnant women, children and those with chronic diseases, such as heart, kidney and respiratory diseases, nervous system disorders, diabetes and immune deficiency.
He advised all prospective pilgrims to take necessary precautions against MERS like frequent washing of hands, avoiding crowds and wearing masks.
Those who develop high temperature, coughing and respiratory problems have been advised to immediately report to the nearest health facility in the holy premises.
They should avoid mixing with other people and must use protective gears like hand gloves and masks. People with weak immunity have also been advised to perform rituals at night to avoid exposure to extreme heat.
The expert advised all prospective pilgrims to take only quality food and avoid vendors and areas that lack proper hygiene.
Vaccines for pilgrims are available at all major health centres across the country.
The Peninsula
