“Health and Community Protection” completes the implementation of the “Healthy and Safe Hajj” campaign

The Ministry of Health and Community Protection, in cooperation with federal and local government agencies, completed the implementation of the “Healthy and Safe Hajj” campaign in conjunction with the return of the country’s pilgrims from the Holy Lands, within the framework of establishing an integrated preventive system aimed at enhancing public health and protecting members of society through the various stages of the Hajj journey, which reflects the readiness of the health sector in the country and the efficiency of proactive plans to deal with national and religious events.

The Ministry stressed that enhancing awareness of preventive practices after return contributes to supporting the safety of families and society, establishes positive health behaviors related to infection prevention, and raises the level of community preparedness, which constitutes a pivotal pillar in building a health system that is more flexible, sustainable, and capable of responding to various health variables.

She called for the need for pilgrims to adhere to health guidelines during the first days after returning, including getting adequate rest and drinking a sufficient amount of fluids, adhering to treatment plans for pilgrims with chronic diseases, in addition to following up on any health indicators that may require medical advice, especially for senior members of society and groups most vulnerable to health stress after performing rituals.

The Ministry recommended that pilgrims who show any signs or symptoms of illness, such as fever and coughing to the point that prevent them from practicing routine activities during the first two weeks after returning from travel, should consult a doctor, cover the mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing and sneezing, and wash hands continuously, in addition to avoiding contact with others so as not to spread the infection.

The campaign, organized by the Ministry of Health and Community Protection in cooperation with the General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat, the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, the Abu Dhabi Center for Public Health, the Emirates Health Services Corporation, the Dubai Health Authority, the Dubai Health Authority, and the Sharjah Health Authority, under the slogan “Healthy and Safe Hajj,” reflects a model of integrated national action, through coordinating awareness efforts and providing comprehensive health instructions that accompanied pilgrims at the various stages of Hajj, which enhances the quality of life of community members.