Weqaya Bolsters Pilgrim Safety With Health Measures For Hajj Season

The Public Health Authority (Weqaya) has undertaken numerous initiatives to ensure the safety of pilgrims during the Hajj season 1445 AH. Early preparations included developing plans to combat infectious diseases, updating protocols related to public health risks, and continuously assessing these risks. Weqaya collaborated with other agencies in an integrated manner, following a comprehensive government approach.

Weqaya introduced mobile infectious disease units at the second and third biosecurity levels to enhance readiness for receiving and examining contagious samples. These units are staffed by trained national personnel and equipped with necessary medical solutions to produce timely results for each examination. This initiative aims to improve the Kingdom’s capability to monitor, diagnose, and investigate high-risk infectious diseases.

Weqaya conducts monitoring field tours in the central area of the Grand Mosque and the Holy Sites to ensure preventive measures are implemented. The Authority also provides educational workshops and visits the headquarters of various countries’ missions to educate pilgrims about essential health procedures. Public health observations, such as sleeping in open areas and gatherings, are closely monitored.

Updated Health Guidance

This year, Weqaya updated the health guidance guide for pilgrims and prepared an awareness guide. A training package for Hajj workers was also designed. In cooperation with relevant authorities, multilingual awareness content was disseminated across several platforms. These efforts aim to educate pilgrims on necessary health measures and ensure their safety during Hajj rituals.

Evaluation of Interventions

The Authority sought to evaluate its interventions to measure their effectiveness and ensure the safety of pilgrims. By continuously assessing these measures, Weqaya aims to provide a successful, pleasant, safe, and healthy Hajj pilgrimage for all participants.

--SPA 18:48 Local Time 15:48 GMT 0085

With inputs from SPA