PHOTO
Vaccinations should be taken before traveling
UAE - The Ministry of Health and Prevention has launched an awareness health campaign for this year’s Hajj in cooperation with the Abu Dhabi Health Authority and Dubai Health Authority. The campaign aims to provide medical counseling and health advice to pilgrims and offers optional seasonal flu and pneumococcal vaccines to ensure their safety and health during their pilgrimage. The announcement was made during a press conference held at the Ministry’s Dubai office.
H.E. Dr. Hussain Abdul Rahman Al Rand, the Ministry’s Assistant Undersecretary for Health Centers and Clinics, said the campaign is aligned with the Ministry’ goals of minimizing the pilgrims’ exposure to health risks and preventing the spread of diseases while performing Hajj. It is also part of the Ministry’s efforts to enhance the local health sector, protect UAE society from communicable diseases, and prevent the spread of illnesses in communities.
H.E. Al Rand also underscored the importance of vaccinations as a preventive measure. H.E. wished the success of the team behind the campaign, while emphasizing the importance of continuous cooperation and sustainable goals to achieve the country’s ambitious socio-economic vision.
Dr. Omniyat Al Hajri, Director of Public Health Department, HAAD said: “Believing that prevention is better than cure and in light of our continuing commitment towards ensuring the safety of pilgrims, the authority calls upon all pilgrims wishing to perform Hajj this year to take all preventive measures that aims to keep them safe and protected from potential infectious diseases as a result of the overcrowding of pilgrims from different parts of the world—interacting with people of different cultures, races and ages, as well as different health risks. To safeguard them, we encourage the pilgrims to undertake the necessary vaccinations prior to traveling, while also practicing personal hygiene, getting enough rest and adequate intake of fluids.”
“Al Hajeri added that all UAE citizens and residents of Abu Dhabi can receive the necessary vaccinations free-of-charge at most of the health centers of the Abu Dhabi Health Services. For the list of health centers offering Hajj vaccinations, please visit www.haad.ae/vaccine Or call 800 555,” said Al Hajri.
"When planning a Hajj pilgrimage, there are certain health and preventive measures to help pilgrims perform their rituals without any health problems," said Dr Elham Al Nuaimi of Dubai Health Authority.
She further stressed the need for pilgrims to obtain the necessary vaccinations before traveling for at least 15 days, as one of the most important ways to prevent infectious diseases. If the recommended vaccinations are not obtained and the outbreak of the disease is associated with the pilgrimage season, pilgrims may bring the disease with them to their countries of origin, leading to the possibility of global outbreaks of a disease in the future.
Tips before going to Hajj
The Ministry called on the pilgrims, especially those with high blood pressure, diabetes, asthma, and other chronic diseases, to visit their doctors or any health center before performing Hajj.
Vaccinations
It also urged them, especially the elderly and individuals with health conditions, to go to the Preventive Medicine Department or any health center at least four to six weeks before travelling. They encouraged them to take meningitis, seasonal flu, and pneumococcal vaccines, among others, to ensure their protection from these diseases. A meningitis vaccination is a prerequisite to secure a visa to Saudi Arabia.
Medicine bag
They should also prepare a medicine bag where they can place their medicines, Vaseline and powder, compressive ligaments, skin burn ointments, wound wipes, gauze, cottons, salts to treat dehydration, and rehydration powders. They are also advised to use sunscreen.
Tips during Hajj
According to the Ministry, pilgrims should always carry their identification and insurance cards. They should also ensure that their rooms are properly ventilated and to always observe cleanliness. Garbage must be disposed of properly. It is also recommended to use fresh, clean, and disposable blades to prevent the possible transmission of infectious diseases such as AIDS and hepatitis.
Proper nutrition
Drinking eight to 10 glass of clean water a day is highly recommended as well, in addition to fresh juices. Sugary foods and soft drinks should be avoided. Eating fresh foods and plenty of vegetables and fruits instead of canned products and salty and sweet foods are always the best option. Also, vegetables and fruits must be thoroughly washed with clean water. Preferably, these must be peeled before cooking or eating them. Cooked food should not be kept for more than two hours at room temperature.
Diarrhea
Diarrhea occurs as a result of eating or drinking contaminated and spoiled food. Besides diarrhea, individuals may also experience vomiting and abdominal pain.
Pilgrims should consume safe and clean food and avoid meals that might have been exposed to insects and dusts. Observe personal hygiene. They should also consult with their doctors or go to the nearest health centers if the diarrhea occurs and persists for more than 24 hours, as well as if their feces have blood or if they have fever while suffering from diarrhea.
Zika virus
The disease is transmitted mainly through mosquito bites, victimizing persons who have traveled in a country where the disease is prevalent. In addition, pregnant women may transmit the virus to the fetus, causing neurological abnormalities to newborns.
The most common symptoms are fever, rashes, joint pain, or conjunctivitis (red eye). Symptoms usually begin after 2-7 days of exposure to infected mosquito bites.
There is no vaccine for Zika disease and the best way to prevent the disease is by avoiding mosquito bites.
Unless absolutely necessary, all pregnant women should consider delaying their travel to areas where Zika cases have been reported.
Sunstroke
Sunstroke occurs due to prolonged exposure to hot weather, resulting in loss of significant amount of fluids and salts. Neglecting it may lead to death due to kidney failure or heart failure.
How to avoid sunstroke
· Drink plenty of fluids
· Wear light colored cotton clothes
· Always use umbrella.
· Avoid direct exposure to the sun as much as possible.
· Take a break after performing each ritual.
· Do not give an unconscious patient with oral fluids to prevent them from reaching the lungs.
Tips for respiratory disease prevention
· Wash the hands with water, soap, or other disinfectants, especially after coughing, sneezing, or using the toilet. Always keep this in mind before and after handling and preparing the food.
· Avoid touching the eyes, nose and mouth to prevent the spread of bacteria.
· Avoid direct contact with people suffering from illnesses such as coughing. Avoid kissing.
· See a doctor if symptoms of respiratory infection accompanied by fever or shortness of breath surface.
The Ministry of Health and Prevention and other local health Authorities have made the following recommendations:
1. Older people aged 60 years and above, chronically ill, children and pregnant women, and those with HIV are advised to postpone Hajj or Umrah this year for their safety.
2. Make sure that children participating in Hajj are up-to-date with their basic vaccinations. To make sure, bring the child's vaccination certificates to any health center to be reviewed by specialists. Unless absolutely necessary, it is best not to take the children to avoid exposure to diseases or accidents.
3. Follow up on the latest information on diseases issued by the Ministry of Health and Prevention and other health authorities.
4. If any symptoms of respiratory infection are observed 14 days after returning from Hajj or Umrah, visit the nearest health center.
-Ends-
© Press Release 2017
