WHO Praises Saudi Arabia's Success in Protecting Global Health During Hajj Season

The World Health Organization (WHO) has lauded Saudi Arabia for its successful management of public health during the recent 1447 AH Hajj season, ensuring it remained free of disease outbreaks and health threats. The Kingdom's effective handling of one of the world's largest annual mass gatherings drew commendation for its strong preparedness and response mechanisms.

WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus congratulated Saudi Arabia, specifically recognizing the efforts of healthcare workers who contributed to a safe pilgrimage. This acknowledgment underscores international trust in Saudi Arabia's capacity to meet the health demands of major events.

Dr. Hanan Balkhy, WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean, also praised the advanced health measures implemented. These included the use of modern technologies like robots and drones, comprehensive healthcare services across various sites, and continuous health monitoring of pilgrims. These efforts ensured pilgrims could perform their rituals safely and with peace of mind.

The Ministry of Health announced that the Hajj season concluded without any disease outbreaks or public health threats. This success was attributed to a large-scale health operation involving integrated preventive, therapeutic, and emergency services. Continuous epidemiological surveillance, health assessments, and risk management, coordinated with national and international bodies, were key components.

Minister of Health Fahad AlJalajel stressed the critical link between Hajj health security and global health security. He noted that the millions of pilgrims returning to their home countries make protecting their health a global responsibility. The successful season, he stated, resulted from a comprehensive health ecosystem that began before pilgrims arrived, encompassing vaccinations and health criteria, and extended through early preparedness, surveillance, risk assessment, and rapid response, all supported by governmental and international collaboration.

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Hajj health security is global health security.