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6/6/24, 3:27 PM International SOS encourages organisations to prioritise pilgrim health and safety - Middle East News 247

International SOS encourages organisations to

prioritise pilgrim health and safety

By Middle East News 247 June 4, 2024

International SOS, the world’s leading health and security services company, confirms its preparedness to
ensure the health and safety of pilgrims during the Hajj season. The organisation encourages businesses
whose employees participate in the Hajj pilgrimage to ensure their awareness of essential precautions for a

safe and healthy spiritual journey. The annual Hajj pilgrimage, a global gathering attracting over 1.8 million
participants last year, is expected to take place in Saudi Arabia from June 14 to 19 2024.

In line with the latest health and safety regulations established by the Saudi Arabian authorities, International
SOS has developed a comprehensive guideline focused on ensuring pilgrims’ health, security and wellbeing.
The guideline outlines crucial pre-travel considerations, including several newly implemented requirements. It

highlights the official permit and vaccination requirements, heat mitigation strategies and promoting vigilance
and awareness of the surroundings to ensure individual safety, particularly during crowd surges.

Dr Nosa Aihie, Regional Medical Director, Middle East, at International SOS, said: “It is important for
pilgrims to adhere to vaccination requirements listed by the government of Saudi Arabia to protect

themselves and their peers from various infectious diseases. This includes the mandatory
2
meningococcal vaccination , which must be administered no more than three years and at least ten days
prior to the planned arrival in Saudi Arabia. Pilgrims are advised to carry valid health certificates confirming

that they are free from any acute, chronic or infectious diseases. Furthermore, we suggest scheduling
activities to avoid peak heat hours whenever possible and being adequately hydrated during Hajj, as pilgrims
may experience heat-related illnesses and dehydration.”

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