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UAE Launches Healthy and Safe Hajj to Protect Millions of Pilgrims

From mandatory vaccines to 24/7 clinics, the UAE's bold campaign redefines pilgrim safety. Could this be the blueprint for future mass religious gatherings?

The image shows a poster with the text "The American Rescue Plan Will Make Vaccines Free for...
The image shows a poster with the text "The American Rescue Plan Will Make Vaccines Free for Everyone" and a picture of a bottle and a shield. The poster is likely promoting the plan, which aims to provide free vaccines to those in need.

UAE Launches Healthy and Safe Hajj to Protect Millions of Pilgrims

The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) has launched the Healthy and Safe Hajj campaign to protect pilgrims during their journey. The initiative includes strict health guidelines, mandatory vaccinations, and free medical screenings to ensure safety in crowded and high-temperature conditions.

Before departure, pilgrims underwent health screenings and were grouped by medical needs. Clinics in Makkah and the Holy Sites were fully stocked with medicines, equipment, and supplies to handle emergencies. The ministry also ran practical simulations, testing how patients would be transported to specialised hospitals if needed.

MoHAP issued ten key health recommendations, such as frequent hand washing, wearing face masks in crowded areas, staying hydrated, and avoiding direct sun exposure. Heat exhaustion, dehydration, and foot injuries were flagged as the most common risks. Older adults, those with chronic illnesses, and pregnant women received extra attention throughout the pilgrimage. Vaccinations played a major role in the campaign. The meningococcal vaccine was mandatory, while seasonal flu and pneumococcal shots were strongly advised for high-risk individuals. Free health checks, including blood pressure and sugar tests, were offered with support from institutions like the Imperial College London Diabetes and Endocrinology Centre in Abu Dhabi. After Hajj, the ministry set four main goals: continuing care for returning pilgrims, detecting complications early, raising awareness of preventive measures, and cutting emergency visits through early treatment. Follow-up programmes and check-ups will monitor pilgrims for any delayed health issues.

The campaign aims to build a culture of community prevention while keeping pilgrims safe before, during, and after Hajj. With medical teams on standby and strict health protocols in place, officials hope to reduce risks and ensure timely care for all participants.

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