TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Ministry of Health has urged Indonesian Hajj pilgrims to increase their vigilance following reports of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) infection cases in Saudi Arabia. This advisory comes ahead of the second wave of Hajj pilgrims, scheduled to arrive on May 17, 2025.
According to World Health Organization (WHO) data, the Saudi Ministry of Health reported nine positive cases of MERS-CoV between March 1 and April 21, 2025. Eight of these cases were identified in Riyadh and one in Hail. Two of the patients have unfortunately died.
"Despite the limited number of MERS-CoV cases and the currently controlled condition, Hajj pilgrims and officials must remain vigilant," said Mohammad Imran, Head of the Health Department of the Saudi Hajj Organizing Committee (PPIH), reporting from the Indonesian Hajj Health Clinic (KKHI), as quoted from an official release on Friday, May 16, 2025.
Of the nine reported cases, seven resulted from transmission within healthcare facilities in Riyadh, including six medical workers who contracted the virus from one infected patient.
Imran explained that MERS-CoV is a severe respiratory disease transmitted through direct contact with infected animals, particularly camels, and through human-to-human droplet transmission. Early symptoms include fever, cough, and difficulty breathing, which can progress to serious complications.
"We urge pilgrims not to have direct contact with camels, including taking photos, drinking camel milk from farms, and consuming processed camel products with uncertain hygiene," Imran advised.
Pilgrims are also advised to adhere to health protocols, such as wearing masks in crowded places, regularly washing hands, and maintaining personal hygiene. Imran added that if pilgrims experience symptoms like fever, cough, or shortness of breath, they should immediately report to healthcare workers for treatment.
The Ministry of Health assures that the Indonesian Hajj Health Clinics in Mecca and Medina are fully prepared to provide medical services for pilgrims exhibiting symptoms of respiratory tract infections during the Hajj season.
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