Mohamed Garba
Pneumonia has infected 99 Indonesian hajj pilgrims in Saudi Arabia, claiming one life and prompting urgent health warnings from Indonesian officials.
The Ministry of Health confirmed the outbreak on Thursday, with the affected pilgrims currently receiving intensive care at hospitals in Mecca and Medina. Health authorities are on high alert as the annual pilgrimage continues to draw millions of worshippers to the region.
Liliek Susilo, head of the Ministry’s Hajj Health Centre, said the surge in cases is deeply concerning. “The rise in pneumonia cases among our hajj pilgrims needs careful attention because it can get worse if not treated fast and correctly,” she said.
Experts point to several factors behind the outbreak. Pilgrims are contending with blistering heat that has reached 47 degrees Celsius, crowded environments, physically demanding schedules, and pre-existing medical conditions — all of which increase vulnerability to respiratory illness.
Susilo urged pilgrims to take extra precautions: wear masks in crowded areas, wash hands frequently, stay hydrated, and adhere to prescribed medications. She also advised against smoking, encouraged rest, and asked pilgrims to report any signs of illness to health teams immediately.
“Our goal is to help every pilgrim complete the hajj in good health,” she said. “Prevention and early treatment are key.”
The Indonesian government has dispatched additional medical staff and supplies to support affected pilgrims and prevent further cases. With temperatures expected to remain high and millions still participating in the pilgrimage, health authorities are racing to contain the situation.