JAKARTA (Bernama): Fifty-three Indonesian pilgrims have died during this year’s Haj in Saudi Arabia, with heart-related illnesses cited as the leading cause, Indonesia’s Ministry of Health said Saturday.
Data from the ministry as of May 23 shows that 19 deaths were caused by acute ischaemic heart disease and cardiogenic shock.
"Most of the deceased had pre-existing heart conditions and failed to regulate their physical exertion,” said a member of the ministry’s Haj Health Team in Makkah, coordinated by Dr Agus Sulistyawati.
The ministry warned that high temperatures and physically demanding activities increase health risks, particularly as the Hajj reaches its peak in Arafah, Muzdalifah and Mina, beginning June 4.
Its Haj Health Centre head Liliek Marhaendro Susilo advised pilgrims to prioritise rest and limit repeated umrah, voluntary tawaf and long walks to mosques or religious sites.
"We strongly advise pilgrims not to overexert themselves, especially during the midday heat. Drink up to two litres of water or Zamzam daily and take oral rehydration salts to stay hydrated,” she added.
According to the Religious Affairs Ministry, 157,800 Indonesian pilgrims have been dispatched so far out of a total of 203,320 planned.
The annual Hajj pilgrimage draws more than two million Muslims worldwide and is one of the five pillars of Islam. - Bernama
