Health Tips for Hajj Pilgrims: How to Dodge the Common Cold
During Hajj, pilgrims often face a challenge with the fluctuating temperatures between air-conditioned indoor environments and the intense outdoor heat.
Sharing accommodations with new acquaintances can also add to the complexity, as everyone has different preferences for temperature.
However, the key concern with these temperature variations is the increased risk of catching a cold, Taher Doroudi, the deputy head of the Hajj and Pilgrimage Medical Center, told IQNA.
While the cool air conditioning in hotels provides relief, stepping out into the scorching heat can be exhausting. The same cycle repeats when entering and exiting air-conditioned vehicles, leading to a pattern of temperature changes that can leave pilgrims vulnerable to respiratory illnesses, according to the expert.
“To minimize this risk, we advise pilgrims to use air conditioning sparingly in their rooms, if at all, or to maintain a moderate temperature setting around 25 to 26 degrees Celsius,” he said.
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It's not uncommon to find the room temperature set too low, at 17 to 20 degrees Celsius, which can potentially lead to health issues, he added.
A practical tip is to keep the air conditioner running while you are out, and turn it off upon returning to your room, ensuring a comfortable environment, Doroudi said.
Additionally, with the congregation of people, it's beneficial to allow for air circulation in hotel rooms by keeping windows open for an hour or two each day, he added.
“While staying hydrated is crucial, we advise against drinking extremely cold water or drinks,” he cautioned.
Instead, pilgrims can opt for water that's just cool enough to refresh without being too cold, as this helps prevent heat-related illnesses without increasing the risk of a cold, he added.
Hajj is a pilgrimage to Mecca that every able-bodied and financially able Muslim is obliged to undertake at least once during their lifetime.
The annual pilgrimage is regarded as one of the pillars of Islam and the largest act of mass pilgrimage in the world.
Some two million Muslims are expected to take part in this year’s Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia.
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