The Danger of Heatstroke for Pilgrims During Armuzna in Hajj

TIMESINDONESIA, MAKKAH – The annual Hajj pilgrimage to Makkah is one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, with millions of pilgrims from around the globe converging on the holy city. Hajj pilgrims are usually middle-aged or older, and many of them face the risk of heatstroke in the hot and humid environment. Heatstroke is a severe condition that requires immediate medical attention and can even be fatal. Therefore, it is crucial for pilgrims to take precautions to prevent this illness during Armuzna.

Armuzna is the most challenging day of Hajj that falls on the ninth day of Dhu al-Hijjah. This day is significant religiously, as Muslims are expected to reach the hill of Arafat, where they pray to Allah to ask for forgiveness and mercy. However, the hot and humid conditions reaching to more than 40 degress Celcius mean that pilgrims must take certain precautions to stay healthy during Armuzna.

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Symptoms of heatstroke can be mild at first and include dehydration or faintness, but they can quickly progress to deadly heatstroke with symptoms like high fever, rapid heartbeat, confusion, and loss of consciousness. In such cases, the need for immediate medical attention arises, which can be challenging in the crowded environment of the Hajj.

The Director of KKHI Madinah dr. Tri Atmajah, advises pilgrims to take essential precautions to avoid heatstroke and dehydration during Armuzna. He emphasized that it was vital for the elderly and those with chronic health conditions to be especially careful during Hajj and suggested the following tips:

1. Drink enough water and avoid drinks that don't hydrate, like carbonated beverages and tea.
2. Rest and take breaks, especially during the hottest time of the day.
3. Wear suitable clothing that is loose-fitting and protects against the sun's rays, like a hat or a headscarf.
4. Eat light, nutritious meals that provide enough energy for the day’s activities and avoid heavy or greasy foods.
5. Seek medical attention immediately if symptoms of heat exhaustion, such as dizziness and weakness, appear.

"Many elderly pilgrims from hot and dry countries were not acclimated to the humid weather conditions of Makkah, which makes them more vulnerable to heatstroke," he said. He underlined the significance of proper health care facilities to handle medical emergencies during Hajj and recommended that Saudi authorities should have specialized medical teams to deal with heatstroke cases.

As the number of Hajj pilgrims increases every year, their safety and wellbeing become even more crucial. Heatstroke can be fatal and is a significant risk during Armuzna, so it is essential to take the necessary precautions to protect oneself. pilgrims need to act responsibly and stay hydrated, rest, and wear appropriate clothing during Hajj. By doing so, they can stay healthy and enjoy a safe and fulfilling Hajj pilgrimage. Finally, it is essential to have proper health care facilities, specialized medical teams, and emergency procedures to handle heatstroke cases and ensure pilgrims' safety. (*)

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