Health Minister Announces Successful Health Plans For Hajj Season 1445 AH With No Outbreaks

Minister of Health Fahd bin Abdul Rahman Al-Jalajel announced today that the health plans for the Hajj season 1445 AH have been successfully executed, with no outbreaks of disease or other public health threats. Al-Jalajel attributed this success to the unwavering support of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and the close follow-up of His Royal Highness the Crown Prince and Prime Minister.

Despite the significant number of pilgrims and high temperatures, there were no public health threats. The minister highlighted the extensive resources allocated to ensure pilgrim well-being, including 189 hospitals, health centres, and mobile clinics with a combined capacity exceeding 6,500 beds. Over 40,000 medical, technical, administrative staff, and volunteers provided care, supported by more than 370 ambulances, seven air ambulances, and a logistics network encompassing 12 laboratories, 60 supply trucks, and three mobile medical warehouses.

The ministry served over 390,000 pilgrims during Hajj. Services included performing more than 28 open-heart surgeries, 720 cardiac catheterizations, and 1,169 dialysis sessions. The Seha Virtual Hospital provided virtual consultations to over 5,800 pilgrims, primarily for heat-related illnesses, enabling prompt intervention and mitigating potential surges in cases.

Al-Jalajel commended the collaborative effort of various healthcare entities. He acknowledged contributions from the Makkah Health Cluster, the Red Crescent Authority, the Public Health Authority (Weqaya), and the Saudi Food and Drug Authority. The National Unified Procurement Company (NUPCO), the Health Volunteer Center, and other stakeholders also played crucial roles in this success.

The minister highlighted measures implemented by the Supreme Hajj Committee, led by Minister of Interior Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif. These measures aimed to protect pilgrims from high temperatures during rituals and address potential health challenges. He expressed appreciation for the Ministry of Interior's contribution to implementing effective health plans.

Al-Jalajel extended his gratitude to Makkah Governor and Chairman of the Central Hajj Committee Prince Khalid bin Faisal, Deputy Governor and Vice Chairman of the Central Hajj Committee Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz, and the Municipality of Makkah for their pivotal roles in achieving this success. He underscored that this accomplishment reflects seamless collaboration between all government agencies and early preparations made within the framework of the Pilgrim Experience Program.

The Central Hajj Committee's recommendation for pilgrims to avoid performing rituals during peak temperatures significantly contributed to safeguarding pilgrims' health. The minister commended the Pilgrim Experience Program for fostering cooperation among Hajj stakeholders and unifying their efforts to create a unique Hajj experience.

Gratitude to Healthcare Providers

Al-Jalajel expressed gratitude to healthcare providers from the Ministry of Defense, the National Guard, and the Ministry of Interior for their expertise in coordinating efforts and delivering healthcare services to pilgrims. He highlighted seamless integration with other healthcare providers that ensured prompt medical attention to all pilgrims.

The minister praised collaborative efforts to educate pilgrims, which successfully prevented any disease outbreaks that could have impacted public health at holy sites. He expressed sincere gratitude to all participating government agencies for their collaborative approach in providing services. This collaboration significantly contributed to preventing epidemics during this year's Hajj season.

Al-Jalajel further commended the spirit of cooperation among all personnel involved in serving pilgrims. He thanked healthcare workers, security personnel, and other workers who contributed with dedication and tireless efforts to a successful Hajj season.

With inputs from SPA