Haj-bound pilgrims, who often ignore issues related to health as they get busy with their travel and religious itinerary, have been asked to be alert for any underlying medical condition which could leave them susceptible to acquiring the deadly Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS - CoV) virus in Saudi Arabia, besides other infectious diseases.
Around 9,000 pilgrims from Andhra Pradesh will be travelling to Saudi Arabia through State Haj Committee and private tour operators. In view of the health risks pilgrims are prone to especially due to air borne infectious diseases, citybased doctors and health department officials say that complications triggered due to the sudden physical exertion, stress and infectious diseases like MERS–CoV can be prevented if precautions are taken.
Common symptoms of MERS-CoV are acute, serious respiratory illness with fever, cough, shortness of breath and breathing difficulties. “In case any of the pilgrims develop these symptoms, they should immediately report to a health specialist,” said Dr Aftab Ahmed, physician, Apollo Hospital, Secunderabad. However, he added that there is no need to panic.
He further said that the pilgrimage is physically demanding and with most of the pilgrims in the 40-60 age group, they are likely to have even undiagnosed health problems. If blood pressure or sugar levels are high, the conditions can be brought under control with medication prior to the journey, he said.
Influenza, typhoid and hepatitis A shots have been recommended by doctors for Haj pilgrims as they enter into a zone where air-borne transmission is very common due to the massive crowd surge. A cough or sneeze is enough to spread the infection, they said. Urging pilgrims to avail medical help without any delay if they develop cough, cold and flu, doctors said basic health facilities would be available every furlong or so. “Also, pilgrims will have to walk for more than 10 km walk daily for four days and during this time blood sugar tends to fall, especially in people who are taking insulin,” said Dr P V Rao, head, endocrinology, Nizam’s Institute of Medical Sciences.
Though the Saudi government arranges for adequate medical care and supply of medications, doctors have advised patients to carry along with them the required supplies. Those suffering from heart, liver and kidney disease must be extra cautious, said Dr Rao.
Dr Mohammed Siraj, head of medicine, Deccan College of Medical Sciences, suggested that people should practice walking and gradually build their stamina prior to the journey. “They must drink plenty of water and those who are carrying insulin should keep the stock in the refrigerator else potency will be lost. If they don’t find the facility, they can always ask for it,” he said.
People with underlying medical conditions who become ill after returning from the Middle East (not just pneumonia) should also consult a doctor, states a travel advisory issued by the World Health Organisation.
