TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The first group of Indonesian hajj pilgrims arrived in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday, April 22, 2026. Amid extreme weather and intense activities, physical readiness is crucial for the smooth performance of the pilgrimage, especially for the elderly and pilgrims with chronic illnesses.
Hajj Saudi Arabia provides health guidelines for elderly hajj pilgrims and those with chronic illnesses, covering medications, medical documentation readiness, special medical equipment, and physical fitness. These guidelines are essential considering a significant number of hajj pilgrims fall into the high-risk category.
Here are nine health recommendations that elderly pilgrims and those with chronic illnesses must adhere to in order to ensure their well-being during the pilgrimage in the Holy Land.
1. Medical Consultation Before Departure
The initial and crucial step is to undergo a comprehensive health consultation before departing. This evaluation is particularly important for pilgrims with severe chronic conditions, such as advanced stage cancers, chronic lung and heart diseases, diabetes, kidney disorders, and senility.
"These Hajj pilgrims need to consult with healthcare professionals to assess their physical readiness and overall health conditions," stated public health expert Tjandra Yoga Pratama, in a press release received by Tempo on Wednesday, April 22, 2026.
2. Complete Medical Documentation
Every pilgrim must carry official medical documents obtained from examinations in their home country. These documents are not just formality; they serve as a guide for medical personnel in Saudi Arabia in case of emergencies. The information should include detailed health conditions, medical history, and a list of regularly consumed medications.
3. Personal Medication Supplies
Hajj pilgrims are advised to carry sufficient personal medication supplies during their time in Saudi Arabia. "An important detail that is often overlooked is the lack of information regarding the generic names of these medications," said the former Director of YARSI University Postgraduate Program, who previously served as the Head of Indonesian Hajj Health Clinic in Mecca. This is because the trade names of medications in Saudi Arabia often differ from those circulated in Indonesia, making generic names a universal language for local medical staff.
4. Adjusting Medication Schedules
The significant time difference between Indonesia and Saudi Arabia, along with the pilgrims' busy mobility schedules, has the potential to disrupt daily medication routines. Pilgrims can consult with doctors regarding adjustments to their medication schedules, considering the time zone differences and departure and return schedules to ensure the effectiveness of their therapy.
5. Updated Vaccination Status
In addition to the mandatory Hajj vaccinations, pilgrims from various countries are urged to update their vaccinations for other infectious diseases. According to relevant authorities, the vaccinations that need attention include Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis, Polio, Measles, Varicella, and Mumps. Ensure that all vaccination documents are well-organized before departure.
6. Ready Availability of Special Medical Equipment
Pilgrims who rely on specific medical aids in their daily lives, such as respiratory aids, hearing aids, or cochlear implants, must ensure that these devices are in good condition. Ensure the availability of spare batteries and other supporting equipment in sufficient quantities to avoid technical issues during the pilgrimage.
7. Wheelchair Management
For pilgrims who genuinely require a wheelchair, it is highly recommended to bring their own from their home country. It is also important to ensure that family members or relatives are ready to assist during their time there. "Pilgrims also need to have basic knowledge about equipment maintenance, such as dealing with flat tires. Alternatively, wheelchairs are also available for purchase at various pharmacies in Mecca if urgently needed," said the former Southeast Asia Regional Director of Communicable Diseases WHO.
8. Limiting Excessive Physical Activities
The Hajj pilgrimage requires strong physical endurance, but elderly pilgrims and those with chronic illnesses must be wise in managing their energy. Prioritizing health is a form of ensuring the smooth conduct of the pilgrimage itself. It is highly recommended for high-risk groups to use wheelchairs when performing Tawaf and Sai. Currently, pilgrims can also utilize electronic transportation modalities available in the area around Masjid al-Haram.
9. Rapid Response to Health Complaints
Lastly, it is important to promptly report any physical discomfort. Symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, and complications related to blood sugar levels should not be ignored. "Elderly hajj pilgrims and those with chronic illnesses must always prioritize their health conditions while performing the pilgrimage," stated Tjandra.
Imanda Zahwa contributed to the writing of this article.
