The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported a surge in COVID-19 cases among pilgrims returning from the annual Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, Saudi Arabia.
In response to this development, WHO recommends that countries with returning pilgrims enhance their COVID-19 surveillance efforts by conducting screening at entry points and advising returnees to self-isolate for 5-7 days, depending on their symptoms.
The Hajj is a significant religious obligation for millions of Muslims around the world, and it takes place over several days in the month of Dhu al-Hijjah, which is the twelfth month of the Islamic calendar.
During this period, pilgrims from all over the globe gather in Mecca to perform a series of rituals and ceremonies, including circling the Kaaba, visiting other sacred sites, and symbolically stoning the devil.
As one of the five pillars of Islam, the Hajj is a mandatory religious duty for Muslims who are physically and financially able to undertake the journey.
For many Muslims, it is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to fulfill this sacred duty and experience the spiritual significance of unity with fellow believers.
However, with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the WHO has expressed concerns about the potential for the virus to spread among pilgrims and in their home countries upon their return.
To mitigate this risk, countries with returning pilgrims are advised to implement enhanced surveillance measures, including screening at entry points and self-isolation protocols for those who may have been exposed to or contracted the virus.
SOURCE : NEWSREPORTZIM.COM
