Heat stroke and heat exhaustion in pilgrims performing the Haj [annual pilgimage] in Saudi Arabia

ABSTRACT

Heat stroke and heat exhaustion are not common problems among Saudi Arabians. They are, however, of significance in pilgrims from other parts of the world during Haj season, which varies according to the lunar calendar year. In recent years, Haj has coincided with the summer months of July and August. The temperatures during Haj reach an average high of 54 C [130 F]. Lack of protection and precautionary measures is the primary reason for the high number of heat-stroke and heat-exhaustion cases among the pilgrims, reported cases of which increased from 258 in 1981 to 1, 119 in 1982, due partly to the mandatory reporting system introduced by the Ministry of Health in 1982. The government of Saudi Arabia provides the best possible health services free of charge to all pilgrims. By 1985, there were a total of 4, 635 hospital beds and 64 Makkah Al Mukarramah Body Cooling Units commissioned in the cities of Arafat, Mina and Makkah. In addition, adequate preventive and educational measures are being promulgated to provide better and safer Haj seasons future