Al-Jalajel: The Ministry of Health provided more than 1.3 million medical services; 1,301 pilgrims die from heatstroke

Saudi Gazette report

MECCA – Saudi Health Minister Fahd Al-Jalajel said on Sunday that the Health Ministry had offered more than 1.3 million medical services to pilgrims during the 2024 Hajj. He said the number of deaths among the pilgrims had reached 1,301 due to heatstroke. Of these deceased pilgrims, 83 percent were unauthorized pilgrims. “Illegal pilgrims traveled long distances under direct sunlight without adequate shelter or comfort. Among the victims were several elderly and chronically ill people,” he said.

In a media interview, Al-Jalajel said no outbreaks or widespread illnesses had been reported among pilgrims during the Hajj. He announced the successful execution of the ministry’s health management plan during the 2024 Hajj season. Around 1.3 million preventive services were provided, including early detection, vaccinations and medical care at the ‘arrival.

This achievement was made possible thanks to the coordinated efforts of the health system and the Hajj security forces. Notably, the health system provided more than 465,000 specialized treatment services, including 141,000 services to those who did not obtain permits to perform Hajj.

The minister reassured about the general state of health of pilgrims, despite the high temperatures experienced in the Holy Places. He highlighted the positive impact of the rapid response of health authorities and the effective support of Hajj security forces in managing and reducing the effects of heat stress.

Al-Jalajel said Saudi health authorities have treated many cases of heatstroke this year, while some people are still receiving treatment. The minister highlighted the great efforts made by the relevant authorities to raise awareness about the dangers of heat stress and the importance of preventive measures. He offered his condolences to the deceased pilgrims, saying: “May God forgive and show mercy to the deceased. Our most sincere condolences to their families. May God accept their deeds and grant them reward for their suffering,” he said.

The minister said all reports have been compiled, families of the deceased have been informed of the deaths and all corpses have been identified, despite initial difficulties due to lack of personal information or identification documents. Proper processes were followed for identification, burial of the deceased and issuance of death certificates,” he said, adding that measures to combat heat stress included the development of life-saving devices. quickly and efficiently to those affected.

Al-Jalajel also explained that the Kingdom’s provision of free health services to pilgrims began even before their arrival, with awareness programs at airports, seaports and at land border crossings. Healthcare services offered included open heart surgeries, cardiac catheterization, dialysis and emergency care, totaling over 30,000 ambulance services, with 95 air ambulance operations ensuring the provision of advanced healthcare services in the medical cities of the Kingdom. Furthermore, the health system has made nearly 6,500 beds and rooms available, added the minister.