Respiratory infections can easily spread in crowded settings. To protect yourself and others:

wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use a hand sanitizer, especially after coughing or sneezing and before eating;

use disposable tissues when coughing or sneezing and dispose of used tissues in a wastebasket;

wear a regular face mask, especially in crowded places;

avoid close contact with people who appear ill and refrain from sharing their personal belongings;

cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze;

do not share personal items like cups, water bottles or eating utensils and avoid overcrowded areas whenever possible; and

avoid contact with camels in farms, markets or barns.

To reduce the risk of food and waterborne diseases during mass gatherings, follow these guidelines:

wash your hands before and after eating and after using toilets, before handling food and after touching animals;

thoroughly clean and wash fresh vegetables and fruit;

cook food thoroughly and store it at safe temperatures;

keep raw and cooked food separated; and

avoid drinking unpasteurized milk or eating animal products that have not been thoroughly cooked.

To avoid heat-related illnesses and dehydration, which can be common during the pilgrimage:

avoid direct sun exposure while performing rituals;

drink consistently throughout the day, even if you do not feel thirsty, and increase your intake in hot weather, during physical exertion or if you experience symptoms of dehydration;

recognize the symptoms of dehydration, including extreme thirst, dry mouth and skin, dark urine, dizziness and fatigue;

if you experience symptoms of dehydration, seek rest in a cool place, drink water or an oral rehydration solution immediately and seek medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen; and

consult your doctor about possible adjustments if you take medications that can exacerbate dehydration (such as diuretics) or interfere with your body’s ability to regulate temperature (heat exchange).

To avoid mosquito bites which can transmit diseases like Zika virus and dengue fever:

wear protective clothing (preferably light-coloured) that covers as much of the body as possible;

use physical barriers such as window screens and closed doors; and

apply insect repellent (as per label instructions on the product) to skin or clothing. Look for products with DEET (a common and effective insecticide ingredient), IR3535 (another effective and milder ingredient) or Icaridin (generally well tolerated) as the active ingredient.

If you have a chronic medical condition, carry documentation detailing your condition and adequate supplies of medication in their original packaging at all times during your pilgrimage. Seek immediate medical attention if your condition worsens.

If you experience any symptoms of illness, seek medical attention promptly at a health care facility. Inform the health care provider of any chronic medical conditions you have. Do not delay seeking care. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for your health and to prevent the spread of illness to others.

The incubation period (the time between infection and the onset of symptoms) for some diseases can be several days or even weeks. This means you may have been exposed during your pilgrimage but not develop symptoms until after you have returned home.

Be vigilant for any signs of illness, which can appear from a few days to up to two weeks after exposure. Symptoms can vary but may include:

fever, which can be high (e.g. 40°C/104°F);

headache, including severe headache or pain behind the eyes;

muscle and joint pains;

fatigue or tiredness, which can be severe;

respiratory symptoms, such as cough or shortness of breath;

gastrointestinal issues, including nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and diarrhoea;

skin rash;

swollen glands;

sore throat;

sore eyes;

dizziness;

numbness or tingling;

loss or change to sense of taste or smell; and

difficulty sleeping.

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following severe symptoms:

difficulty breathing, especially at rest;

inability to speak in sentences;

confusion, drowsiness or loss of consciousness;

persistent pain or pressure in the chest;

cold, clammy, pale or bluish skin;

loss of speech or movement;

severe abdominal pain;

persistent vomiting;

rapid breathing;

bleeding gums or nose; and

blood in vomit or stool.

Remember that some people, especially those with pre-existing health conditions, are at higher risk of developing severe illness. It is important to seek medical help early if you are worried about your condition.

Even after recovery, some people may experience long-lasting effects, such as fatigue, breathlessness and cognitive dysfunction. If you experience such symptoms, consult your doctor.

If you develop any concerning symptoms, seek medical attention promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent severe illness and potential long-term complications or disability.

Inform your doctor about your recent travel to Umrah or Hajj, including the dates and locations you visited. This information helps your doctor in the diagnostic process.

Because some illnesses can be contagious, take precautions to protect your family and community upon your return.

If you develop any symptoms, limit close contact with others, especially vulnerable individuals such as the elderly, young children and those with weakened immune systems.

Follow your doctor's advice regarding isolation and quarantine measures.

For the most up-to-date information on health requirements and recommendations for travel to Saudi Arabia, please visit the official website of the Saudi Ministry of Health (www.moh.gov.sa).