Ninety-nine Indonesian haj pilgrims have been diagnosed with pneumonia in Saudi Arabia, with one reported death, according to the Indonesian Ministry of Health.
Officials are urging urgent attention to the rising number of cases to prevent further health risks. “This increase in pneumonia cases among haj pilgrims needs serious attention because the condition can worsen quickly without proper treatment,” said Liliek Marhaendro Susilo, head of the Ministry’s Haj Health Centre, on Thursday.
The infected pilgrims are being treated in hospitals across Mecca and Medina, as reported by Xinhua News Agency. Health authorities say the extreme heat, crowded conditions, physical exhaustion, and existing medical issues are major risk factors for pneumonia among pilgrims.
Temperatures in Mecca and Medina are currently reaching up to 47°C. In such conditions, dehydration and fatigue can weaken the immune system and raise the risk of infection.
Liliek advised pilgrims to stay safe by wearing masks, washing hands regularly, drinking plenty of water, and taking prescribed medication. She also reminded pilgrims to conserve their energy, avoid smoking, and report any symptoms immediately to prevent further spread of illness.
The Ministry’s data from Indonesian Haj Health Clinics (KKHI) in Mecca and Medina showed that the infected pilgrims are spread across different sectors and groups. Liliek warned that pneumonia can be life-threatening, especially for those with chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease.
Pneumonia is a lung infection caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi, which inflames the air sacs and makes breathing difficult. In crowded areas and under extreme heat, the risk of respiratory infections increases.
The Health Ministry continues to monitor the situation closely as the haj pilgrimage progresses.
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