Pilgrims to begin returning on Friday; HPA ensures easy access to medical consultations for returnees
HPA has urged returning Hajj pilgrims to seek immediate medical attention if they exhibit any symptoms of illness, warning of an increased risk of respiratory infections during this period. While general OPD services at hospitals have been streamlined to ensure easy access to treatment, the public is advised to maintain strict personal hygiene to prevent the spread of disease. According to the Maldives Hajj Corporation, all pilgrims are currently in good health, with the group scheduled to return to the Maldives on four flights between July 5 and July 9.
Maldivian pilgrims in Medina. This year, the pilgrims once again departed under the "Makkah Route" initiative. | Raajje hajj mission
The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has announced that arrangements have been made for returning Hajj pilgrims to consult doctors conveniently through the general outpatient departments (OPD) of hospitals.
Viral fevers and respiratory infections typically see a surge following the Hajj pilgrimage as pilgrims return home. Consequently, the Health Protection Agency (HPA) has urged the public to take special precautions to protect themselves from these illnesses.
The Health Protection Agency (HPA) stated that although dedicated flu clinics have not been established this year as in previous years, arrangements have been made for patients to easily consult doctors through the general OPD services at hospitals.
Emphasizing the importance of taking special precautions against diseases, the Health Protection Agency (HPA) has advised individuals returning from Hajj or Umrah to seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms such as fever, coughing, difficulty breathing, or chest pain within 14 days of their return. The agency further stressed that travelers must inform healthcare providers of their recent travel history during their consultation.
The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has advised individuals suffering from the common cold to cover their nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, and to ensure that used tissues are disposed of hygienically. Furthermore, the HPA urged those experiencing cold symptoms or coughing to avoid public gatherings and crowded areas.
Maldivian pilgrims are scheduled to begin their return home this Friday, July 5.
The Maldives Hajj Corporation has announced that four flights have been arranged to transport pilgrims back to the Maldives. The first flight, carrying 242 pilgrims, is scheduled to arrive on the 5th of this month.
According to the Maldives Hajj Corporation, the second group of 250 pilgrims is scheduled to arrive on June 7, followed by a third flight carrying 243 pilgrims on June 8. The final flight is expected to arrive in the Maldives during the early hours of June 9. The Corporation confirmed that this last flight will bring back 250 pilgrims.
The Hajj Corporation has announced that while Saudi Arabian Airlines will operate the flights scheduled for June 5 and 8, the national carrier, Maldivian, will handle the flights on June 7 and 9.
This year’s Maldivian pilgrims departed for Saudi Arabia between May 15 and 19. The Maldives Hajj Corporation has confirmed that all pilgrims are currently in good health.
