Before You Travel

Essential Vaccinations:

Meningococcal ACWY vaccine (REQUIRED by Saudi Arabia)

Seasonal flu vaccine (highly recommended)

COVID-19 vaccination (check current requirements)

Pneumococcal vaccine (especially for elderly/chronic conditions)

Medical Check-up:

Visit your doctor 2-3 months before departure

Get chronic conditions under control

Get enough medication for your entire trip plus extra

Carry a letter explaining your medications

The #1 Problem: Dehydration

I cannot stress this enough - DEHYDRATION is the biggest health issue I see.

Warning signs:

Dark urine

Dizziness

Headache

Fatigue

Dry mouth

Prevention:

Drink at least 3-4 liters of water daily

Always carry a water bottle

Avoid caffeinated drinks (coffee, tea)

Drink oral rehydration salts (ORS)

Don't wait until you're thirsty

Heat-Related Illness

Summer temperatures can exceed 45C (113F)!

Prevention:

Use an umbrella for shade

Wear loose, light-colored clothing

Avoid peak heat hours (11am-4pm) for outdoor activities

Take breaks in air-conditioned areas

Wear sunscreen

Heat Exhaustion Signs:

Heavy sweating, weak pulse, nausea, fainting

Treatment: Move to shade, drink water, cool the body

Heat Stroke (EMERGENCY!):

High body temperature, confusion, no sweating

Treatment: Call emergency services immediately, cool the body rapidly

Respiratory Infections

With millions of people from different countries, respiratory infections spread easily.

Prevention:

Wear a mask in crowded areas

Wash hands frequently

Carry hand sanitizer

Avoid touching your face

Stay away from visibly sick people if possible

Foot Care

Your feet are your most important asset during Hajj!

Prevention:

Break in your shoes BEFORE the trip

Wear comfortable, supportive footwear

Keep feet clean and dry

Carry blister plasters

Consider compression socks for long walks

Essential Medical Kit

Pack these items:

Prescription medications (with doctor's letter)

Pain relievers (paracetamol, ibuprofen)

Antidiarrheal medication

Oral rehydration salts

Antihistamines (for allergies)

Throat lozenges

Bandages and blister plasters

Sunscreen

Face masks

Hand sanitizer

When to Seek Medical Help

Don't hesitate to get help if you experience:

High fever (above 38.5C/101F)

Severe headache that doesn't improve

Persistent vomiting or diarrhea

Chest pain or difficulty breathing

Signs of dehydration despite drinking water

Any concerning symptoms

Saudi Arabia has excellent medical facilities for pilgrims, and treatment is free. Don't suffer in silence!

May Allah grant you health and accept your pilgrimage!