Embarking on the sacred pilgrimage of Hajj is a profound spiritual journey, and ensuring the well-being and safety of pilgrims is paramount. This wellness guide provides essential tips to enhance the health and safety of those undertaking the holy pilgrimage. As you prepare for this sacred expedition, consider entrusting your journey to Hejaz e Moqaddus, renowned for offering the best and most affordable Hajj Packages 2024. Your pilgrimage experience deserves the utmost care and attention, and Hejaz e Moqaddus is dedicated to providing a seamless and fulfilling Hajj experience.
To ensure a healthy and safe experience, consider the following tips for a wellness guide for pilgrims:
Vaccinations and Immunizations
Stay up-to-date on vaccinations recommended for travel to Saudi Arabia. Some of these vaccinations are compulsory while others are optional. Make sure to consult your doctor before taking any vaccine.
Before travelling for Hajj: Seasonal influenza vaccination is recommended, particularly for those with chronic diseases and pilgrims with immune deficiency, metabolic disorders, pregnant women and children aged under 5 years, and those suffering severe obesity for their own safety.
THE HAJJ SAFE FIRST AID KIT
A personal first aid kit will be useful in case of minor health emergencies. The following list provides guidelines on what to include:
- Adequate supplies of all regular medication.
- A signed and dated letter from your doctor that includes all medical conditions and a list of all medications, including generic names.
- If you have major allergies or a chronic medical condition, wear a medical alert bracelet.
- Adhesive dressings, antiseptic cream, insect repellent and petroleum jelly.
Keep Yourself Physically Fit
From walking around the Holy Kaaba – circumambulating seven times – to running between Safa and Marwa, and spending a night under the open sky in Muzdalifah, you need to be physically fit in order to perform the rituals of Hajj in a righteous way. Visit a doctor at least 1 month before travelling to review your health status and assess any potential risks during the pilgrimage.
Protection Against Heat Exhaustion and Sun Stroke
Hajj usually takes place in the peak summer months of the year, and the temperature is almost always above 40 degrees Celsius, pilgrims perform rituals, such as Tawaf (circumambulation of the Kaaba), Sa’i (walking between Safa and Marwa), and throwing stones during peak times of congestion, which causes them to suffer heat exhaustion.
Prevention:
- Dehydration may cause pilgrims to lose massive quantities of liquids. So, it is recommended to drink enough liquids (water, juices, etc.) regularly.
- Take enough sleep and rest and avoid exposure to excessive physical exhaustion.
- Plan your schedule to allow for breaks and relaxation.
- Avoid direct exposure to sunlight, use sunscreen, stay in a shaded area and use an umbrella.
- Use sunscreen with a high SPF to protect your skin from the intense sun.
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses to shield yourself from the sun’s rays.
Hygiene and General Cleanliness Tips
The most important tips to be followed:
- Maintaining personal hygiene, bathing regularly, and washing hands well.
- Carry personal hygiene products such as hand sanitizers, wet wipes, and tissues.
- Wash your hands well, especially after bathing, after coughing and sneezing, before and after eating, and when coming back to your residence.
- Avoid spitting on the floor, since it is a hazardous source of infection as well as being inappropriate.
- Change clothes with new ones every now and then to avoid potential health problems such as sunburn.
Health nutrition during Hajj
During Hajj, you need to be extra careful about what you drink and eat. Diarrhoea is, unfortunately, one of the most common health problems that pilgrims suffer during the sacred journey. Since pilgrims tend to purchase food from local vendors, there’s a possible chance that they might end up eating something unhealthy, contaminated, or undercooked. This can lead to abdominal cramps, vomiting, nausea, and diarrhoea, resulting in the person feeling weak and even being unable to walk.
It is best to be mindful of your eating habits at this time and follow these tips:
- Wash your hands thoroughly before and after eating
- Wash fruit and vegetables thoroughly before eating
- Use clean plates and cutleries
- Avoid salty food to prevent dehydration
- Avoid food from street vendors
- Do not buy uncovered foods.
- Do not store cooked food at room temperature for more than two hours as this leads to bacterial growth which increases the possibility of food poisoning.
- Eat meals regularly to maintain your energy levels and avoid fatigue.
- Do not consume large quantities of energy-boosting drinks such as coffee and tea as they cause dehydration and extreme thirst.
Prevention of infection during Hajj
Pilgrims performing the Hajj are at risk of various health problems due to the large number of people. It is essential to follow a healthy routine during Hajj.
Precautions
- Stay away from anyone showing symptoms of infections or skin rashes, and inform the concerned authorities.
- Refrain from touching your nose, mouth and eyes, and adhere to cough and sneeze etiquette.
- Consider wearing masks when in a crowd to stay away from respiratory infections.
- Ensure the safety and cleanliness of the food consumed to prevent gastrointestinal infections.
Shaving and Haircutting Tips
Some pilgrims re-use shavers or razors used by others, which makes them subject to infectious diseases such as Hepatitis B and C. Remember to use your own personal equipment, such as razors and shavers once, then throw them away in the trash.
Know Emergency Procedures:
- Familiarize yourself with emergency exits, medical facilities, and evacuation procedures.
- Save important contact numbers, including local emergency services.
In conclusion, embarking on the sacred pilgrimage of Hajj is a profound and spiritually enriching journey for millions of Muslims. Prioritizing health and well-being is paramount to ensuring a safe and fulfilling experience. Vaccinations, a well-prepared first aid kit, physical fitness, protection against extreme heat, hygiene practices, and mindful nutrition are integral aspects of maintaining health during this sacred journey. Pilgrims should be vigilant in preventing infections, practice good hygiene, and adhere to safety measures to safeguard their well-being and that of others. The pilgrimage is a unique opportunity for spiritual reflection, and by incorporating these health guidelines, pilgrims can focus on the profound spiritual aspects of Hajj while safeguarding their physical and mental health. May this guide serve as a comprehensive resource to enhance the well-being of those undertaking the sacred pilgrimage of Hajj.
