Saudi Arabia Enhances Health Checks for Hajj Pilgrims Amid Ebola Concerns
Saudi Arabia tightens checks for arrivals from Ebola-affected region ahead of Hajj

Image: Khaleej Times
Saudi Arabia's Public Health Authority (Weqayah) is intensifying health checks for travelers from Ebola-affected regions in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda ahead of the Hajj pilgrimage. The country has implemented precautionary measures since July 2019 and is prepared to respond to any health risks to ensure the safety of citizens and pilgrims.
- 01Precautionary measures for arrivals from Ebola-affected regions have been in place since July 2019.
- 02The World Health Organization declared the Ebola outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern on May 17.
- 03Saudi Arabia has activated health response teams and enhanced screening measures at all entry points.
- 04Daily epidemiological monitoring is being conducted at accommodation sites for pilgrims.
- 05No suspected or confirmed Ebola cases have been reported in Saudi Arabia as of now.
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In response to the Ebola virus outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda, Saudi Arabia's Public Health Authority (Weqayah) has tightened health checks for travelers from affected regions ahead of the Hajj pilgrimage. The authority is coordinating with global health organizations and has been implementing precautionary measures since July 2019, when entry visas were suspended for travelers from Ebola-affected areas. These measures have been continuously reviewed based on ongoing risk assessments. The World Health Organization (WHO) declared the Ebola outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern on May 17, prompting Saudi Arabia to enhance its health response. This includes activating health response teams, increasing screening measures, and ensuring health facilities are ready to handle suspected cases. Daily epidemiological monitoring is underway at accommodation sites for pilgrims arriving from affected countries. Weqayah confirmed that no suspected or confirmed Ebola cases have been reported in the Kingdom, and the health status of pilgrims is stable and under close monitoring. The authority continues to collaborate with local and international agencies to ensure public health safety during the Hajj season.
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These measures are critical for ensuring the health and safety of pilgrims during the Hajj season, which attracts millions of visitors to Saudi Arabia.
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