Health Minister Announces Success of Hajj Health Plans and Absence of Any Outbreaks or Threats to Public Health
The Minister of Health, Fahd Al-Jalajel, has declared the triumph of the health plans put in place for this year’s Hajj season 1444 AH, with no reports of any outbreaks or threats to public health. In an address delivered from the Command and Control Center in Mina on Friday, June 30th, Al-Jalajel expressed his satisfaction with the outcome and attributed the success to the unwavering support of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, as well as the guidance of His Royal Highness the Crown Prince and Prime Minister.
He commended the efforts of the Supreme Hajj Committee, under the leadership of Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif, Minister of Interior, in overcoming all health challenges. Al-Jalajel also extended his gratitude to the Ministry of Interior for their significant contribution to the implementation of health plans. He acknowledged the dedicated supervision of Prince Khalid bin Faisal bin Abdulaziz, Advisor to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, Governor of Makkah Region, and Chairman of the Central Hajj Committee, as well as Prince Badr bin Sultan bin Abdulaziz, Deputy Governor of Makkah Region and Vice Chairman of the Central Hajj Committee. The minister credited their relentless efforts, along with the support of the Makkah Principality, for the achievement of this success. Al-Jalajel emphasized the importance of coordination and early preparedness across all government agencies for the Hajj season.
The Minister of Health highlighted the extensive healthcare facilities and personnel deployed for the well-being of the pilgrims. In adherence to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques’ priorities, more than 354 healthcare facilities across various sectors were readied to serve the pilgrims. These facilities were supported by over 36,000 healthcare professionals, alongside the aid of more than 7,600 volunteers.
Al-Jalajel went on to reveal the statistic that over 400,000 pilgrims received healthcare services during this year’s Hajj season. Among them, 50 individuals underwent open heart surgery, 800 received cardiac catheters, and more than 1,600 underwent dialysis sessions. Additionally, 4,000 pilgrims were provided virtual health consultations through Seha Virtual Hospital SVH, and 8,000 individuals were treated for heat stress.
In his concluding remarks, the Minister of Health expressed his appreciation for all sectors that played a role in promoting health awareness among pilgrims and delivering essential services to them. He extended his best wishes for a safe and pleasant journey back to their respective countries.
This year’s Hajj season has undoubtedly been a success story, marked by meticulous planning, effective coordination, and the tireless dedication of healthcare professionals and volunteers. The absence of any outbreaks or threats to public health stands as a testament to the comprehensive approach taken by the Ministry of Health and its collaborative efforts with other government entities. The success of the health plans ensures the pilgrims’ well-being, further solidifying the reputation of Saudi Arabia as a responsible host of the annual Hajj pilgrimage.
