TIMES AUSTRALIA, JAKARTA – As the summer season intensifies in Saudi Arabia, health officials are urging Hajj 2025 pilgrims to take extra precautions to protect themselves from heat-related illnesses and infectious diseases.

Dr. M. Imran, Head of the Health Division for the Indonesian Hajj Organizing Committee (PPIH) in Saudi Arabia, recently highlighted growing concerns due to soaring temperatures and increasing crowd density in Makkah.

In the last few days, temperatures in Makkah have continued to rise, creating challenging conditions for the influx of pilgrims arriving from Madinah and directly from Indonesia.

With more than 71,000 Indonesian pilgrims already in the city—and the total expected to exceed 200,000—the physical and health demands are becoming more intense.

Dr. Imran emphasized that the combination of extreme heat and dense crowds can lead to serious health complications. Particularly for elderly pilgrims or those with pre-existing conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, or respiratory disorders.

Many cases reported in recent days include Acute Respiratory Infections (ARI), dehydration, heat exhaustion, and cardiovascular problems.

According to the Ministry of Health, by May 18, 2025, more than 1,160 pilgrims had been treated for ARI. If not treated promptly, these infections can escalate into pneumonia—a common reason for hospitalization at the Indonesian Hajj Health Clinics (KKHI) or local hospitals.

Additionally, 28 pilgrims have reportedly passed away, mostly due to heart disease and severe infections exacerbated by weakened immunity.

To help minimize health risks, Dr. Imran and the health authorities have issued the following important tips.

1. Get Proper Rest: Pilgrims are strongly advised to rest after arrival in Makkah, especially before performing their mandatory umrah. Fatigue can lower immunity and increase susceptibility to illness.

2. Avoid Peak Heat Hours: Refrain from going outdoors between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM, when the sun is at its strongest. Schedule outdoor rituals and travel during the cooler parts of the day.

3. Stay Hydrated: Drink at least 200 ml of water every hour when outside, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Dehydration can happen quickly in extreme heat.

4. Use a Mask: Wear a mask if you are coughing or feeling unwell to protect others and prevent the spread of infection.

5. Prioritize Light Worship Activities: Those with health issues should consider limiting strenuous worship like sunnah umrah, and instead focus on lighter spiritual activities such as reading the Qur’an, making dhikr, or giving charity from the comfort of their hotel room.

By following these practical health tips, Hajj 2025 pilgrims can stay safe and spiritually focused, ensuring a fulfilling and meaningful pilgrimage experience amid challenging weather conditions.