Saudi Arabia Expands Hajj Pilgrim Insurance Coverage to Include Extreme Heat Risks
Saudi Arabia has expanded the health insurance coverage for prospective Hajj pilgrims during the peak of the rituals at Arafah, Muzdalifah, and Mina (Armuzna). This expansion includes protection against health issues caused by extreme heat, such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke. The Head of the Health Section for the Mecca Working Area of the PPIH Saudi Arabia, Edi Supriyatna, stated that changes to the insurance clause have been communicated to the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.
The specific insurance protection applies from the 8th to the 13th of Dhul-Hijjah. Pilgrims are advised to maintain hydration by drinking at least 200 milliliters of water per hour slowly, and to prepare supporting tools like fans and water sprays. The PPIH emphasizes that insurance claims are only valid during that period; health issues occurring outside those dates are the individual's responsibility.
The government is also providing the Indonesian Hajj Health Clinic (KKHI) for the Mecca Working Area with an Urgent Care Center system operating 24 hours. This service is supported by 122 healthcare personnel and supporting facilities such as radiology and laboratory, with patient handling based on the level of urgency.
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