Pilgrims urged to take jabs, precautions

The Primary Health Care Corp (PHCC) has urged Haj pilgrims to ensure they are healthy and fully prepared to embark on pilgrimage. In view of the potential health problems and risks pilgrims could face during Haj, the PHCC has urged them, especially the sick ones, to get vaccinated prior to departure and take necessary precautions.amily physician at the Madinat Khalifa Health Centre Dr Mai al-Sammak stressed the importance of adopting a healthy life, eating healthy foods and taking vaccinations against meningitis and Covid-19, as well as other immunisations. Dr al-Sammak said it is advisable to take shots against seasonal influenza, pneumonia and tetanus prior to the departure, adding that elderly people should consult physicians to make sure that they are healthy and capable of enduring the physical conditions during Haj, since pilgrims may suffer from a chronic illness, or they are taking certain medicines that require special attention.Dr al-Sammak also urged pregnant women to consult doctors before setting off for pilgrimage as they need special facilities, adding that children should be instructed to maintain personal hygiene and use hand sanitiser.