Pneumonia hits 99 Indonesian haj pilgrims in Saudi Arabia, 1 dies

IANS May 23, 2025 276 views

A serious health situation has emerged for Indonesian Hajj pilgrims in Saudi Arabia, with 99 individuals contracting pneumonia and one confirmed death. The Indonesian Ministry of Health warns about the critical nature of these infections, primarily driven by extreme temperatures, crowded environments, and potential underlying health conditions. Medical experts are emphasizing the importance of preventive measures like mask-wearing, hydration, and quick reporting of symptoms. The ministry continues to monitor the situation closely, providing intensive care for affected pilgrims in Mecca and Medina hospitals.

"In the crowded Haj environment and extreme heat, the risk of respiratory infection transmission increases" - Liliek Marhaendro Susilo
Jakarta, May 23: Ninety-nine Indonesian haj pilgrims have been infected with pneumonia in Saudi Arabia, including one patient who has died, said the Indonesian Ministry of Health.

Key Points

1

Extreme heat up to 47°C increases pneumonia risk among pilgrims

2

Crowded conditions and exhaustion contribute to health complications

3

Ministry urges pilgrims to wear masks and stay hydrated

4

Underlying health conditions elevate pneumonia danger

The Ministry warned that the increase in pneumonia cases requires urgent attention to prevent further complications.

"The rise in pneumonia cases among our hajj pilgrims needs careful attention because it can get worse if not treated fast and correctly," said Liliek Marhaendro Susilo, head of the Haj Health Centre at the Ministry, on Thursday.

The infected pilgrims are currently receiving intensive care at hospitals in Saudi Arabia's Mecca and Medina, Xinhua news agency reported.

Liliek said the main risk factors for pneumonia among haj pilgrims in Saudi Arabia are extreme heat up to 47 degrees Celsius, tiredness from a busy schedule, crowded masses, and existing health problems or comorbidities.

She asked pilgrims to stay careful by wearing masks, washing their hands, drinking enough water, and taking their medicines regularly if they have health issues.

She also reminded pilgrims to keep their energy, avoid smoking, and quickly report any sickness to help make the haj safe and smooth.

According to data from the Indonesian Haj Health Clinics (KKHI) in Mecca and Medina as of May 20, the affected pilgrims are spread across various sectors and groups.

Liliek added that pneumonia can be life-threatening, particularly for those with underlying health conditions.

Pneumonia is an inflammation of the air sacs in the lungs, typically caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi.

"In the crowded Haj environment and extreme heat, the risk of respiratory infection transmission increases," she said.

The Haj Health Centre has identified several risk factors for pneumonia among pilgrims, including high temperatures.

Liliek further highlighted the risk posed by comorbidities, such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease, which can make individuals more susceptible to pneumonia.

The ministry continues to monitor the situation closely as pilgrims complete their religious duties.

Based on KKHI's real-time data, Liliek said, the temperature on Thursday in Mecca and Medina ranged from 41-47 degrees Celsius.

If there is a lack of fluid intake in conditions like this, it can cause dehydration that can make the body more susceptible to infection.

Reader Comments

R
Rahul K.
Very sad to hear about the passing of the pilgrim. The extreme heat in Saudi Arabia during Hajj is no joke - we see similar challenges with Indian pilgrims too. Proper hydration and rest are so important in such conditions. 🙏
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Priya M.
This shows how important health precautions are during mass gatherings. Maybe organizers should consider limiting numbers or improving medical facilities further. The combination of heat, crowds and pre-existing conditions is dangerous.
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Amit S.
Our government should take note of this for Indian Hajj pilgrims. We send lakhs of people every year - need to ensure proper medical teams accompany them and strict health protocols are followed. Prevention is better than cure!
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Sunita R.
Heartbreaking news. The elderly and those with health conditions should maybe reconsider going during peak summer months. Religious devotion is important but so is life. Maybe Hajj authorities could consider seasonal adjustments?
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Vikram J.
The Saudi government should invest more in cooling technologies for pilgrimage sites. 47°C is unbearable for anyone, especially elderly pilgrims. They make so much money from Hajj - some should be reinvested in better infrastructure and medical care.

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Tags:
Hajj 2024 Indonesian Pilgrims Saudi Arabia Pneumonia Health Emergency Liliek Marhaendro Susilo