WHO praises Saudi Arabia for disease-free Hajj season
Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
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Official statement
Outcome reported
- The World Health Organization praised Saudi Arabia for ensuring the Hajj season was free of disease outbreaks and public health threats.
- WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus commended the Kingdom's effective management of the large gathering and its health preparedness.
- Saudi Arabia's Minister of Health emphasized that Hajj health security is global health security, highlighting integrated efforts and international coordination.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has lauded Saudi Arabia's successful management of the 1447 AH Hajj season, reporting zero disease outbreaks and public health threats. The organization commended the Kingdom's robust public health preparedness and response capabilities during one of the world's largest mass gatherings, especially amid ongoing global health challenges.
WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus congratulated Saudi Arabia, recognizing the efforts of healthcare workers in ensuring a safe and healthy pilgrimage. This praise underscores international confidence in the Kingdom's ability to meet the health demands of major events.
Dr. Hanan Balkhy, WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean, also congratulated the Kingdom, highlighting its advanced health preparations. She noted the deployment of modern technologies like robots and drones, comprehensive healthcare services, and continuous health monitoring for pilgrims, allowing them to perform their rituals safely.
Hajj health security is global health security.
Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Health announced the season's success, detailing one of the largest health preparedness operations ever undertaken. This included integrated preventive, therapeutic, and emergency services, alongside continuous epidemiological surveillance and risk management in coordination with national and international bodies.
Minister of Health Fahad AlJalajel stressed that Hajj health security directly contributes to global health security. He explained that the successful season resulted from an integrated health ecosystem, beginning before pilgrims arrive with vaccination and health criteria, and extending through early preparedness, surveillance, and rapid response. This effort involved significant coordination among government entities and international health organizations, utilizing extensive human, technical, and operational resources.
WHO Praises Saudi Arabia’s Success in Protecting Global Health during Hajj Season
DistantNews Editorial
Originally published by Asharq Al-Awsat in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.
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