Health & Safety

Health & safety

Before you travel to Hajj you must protect your health and that of others by ensuring that you have all the required vaccinations.  You have to remember that at Hajj there are around three million people who come from all corners of the world and you will come into very close physical contact with many of them due to the nature of Hajj. 

    The ‘Hajj cough’ occurs on the charter plane home. Because of the emotional and physical strain of the trip, your immune system is virtually non-existent. In addition, you will have been surrounded by many Hajjis, in a cabin that has poor seating, dysfunctional air-conditioning (it’s either freezing or baking on the plane, depending on where you are sitting). Only one person has to cough, and the whole plane will have a fever. Even if you escape that, the sudden temperature differential (from hot country to cold seat; or hot seat to cold country) for your body to shutdown.

      You will may not be able to go to work the day after you return, you may need at least 3 days in bed, and even after you’ve returned to work, you won’t notice the ‘hajj cough’ disappear for at least 2-8 weeks.

      However, the most serious virus that you can catch is meningitis and this can be fatal.  It is a requirement of Hajj visa regulations that you get vaccinated against meningitis, and you must submit your vaccination certificate with your application. Click here for information about vaccinations

HEALTH CONDITIONs

If you have a health condition seek your doctor’s advice to help you decide whether you are fit to travel and if you are then ask your doctor to confirm it in writing. If you are on medication, take a supply long enough to last you through the trip. Many wrongly believe that medication will not be so necessary in such a holy place – this is not the case!  Keep taking your medication as normal and get advice from your doctor before travelling for any changes / any extras you may need to take with you.

Ladies are not permitted to perform the rituals of Hajj if on their monthly period. Many choose to delay the bleeding by using medication, there is one called Norethrestrone that many choose to use. Speak to your GP and get full advice on how and when to use it.

Healthy & Safety tips

The following is also important advice about booking your travel:

  • Flu jab

    • It is advisable to get a Flu jab before going on Hajj

    Water

    • Keep hydrated with water, preferably Zam Zam, always carry a small water bottle with you

    Fruit

    • Diet: Be careful where you eat from outside vendors. Eat plenty of fresh fruit.

    Socks / Blisters

    • To prevent blisters from walking on the hard marble, wear socks - once out of Ihram, Tiger Balm & Blister plasters to soothe your feet (and a foot file to sand out hard skin) will bring much needed comfort.

    Hand Gel

    • Non-alcoholic hand gel is crucial, especially during Mina (there is no soap), and can be used during your Ihram days.

    Aspirin

    • To prevent cramps and headaches and support blood circulation before long journeys take: baby Aspirin 70mg, Dioralyte

    Ibuprofen

    • For aches and pains: Ibuprofen, Paracetamol, Algesal cream

    Vaseline

    • Use Vaseline to prevent soreness (e.g. on inner thighs)

    Tap water

    • Avoid tap water and unhygienic food

    Coughs

    • For coughs: honey and lemon, black seed oil

    Shade

    • Beware of direct sunlight. Stay in the shade or use an umbrella

Before going on Hajj, pilgrims are recommended to start regular walking and generally keeping fit and healthy, losing any excess weight and eating more healthy foods. There are additional guidance on Safety with regards to the Hajj Steps - click here to read more