JEDDAH - The World Health Organization commended Saudi Arabia’s elaborate preparations to prevent the spread of various infectious diseases, particularly swine flu, during the current Umrah season and upcoming Haj season.

A statement issued by WHO’s regional office in the Middle East yesterday, described the Saudi preparations comprehensive, methodical and transparent. The statement also lauded the willingness of the Saudi Ministry of Health to pass accurate information to international organizations.

The WHO’s report follows a visit by a team of its experts to Saudi Arabia to view the preventive measures against the H1N1 virus infection and other contagious diseases being implemented by the Saudi health authorities for the Haj and Umrah seasons.

The team of experts also stressed the need for constant monitoring of entry points to detect if any virus-infected pilgrim or visitor is entering the country.

The WHO team also recommended the vaccination of all pilgrims and health care providers against H1N1 virus as soon as the vaccine is available. The WHO also urged the pilgrims to adhere to healthy hygienic practices so that the spread of infections are minimized.

© Arab News 2009

Recent Entries

• Senior expat nurses in govt hospitals await pay revision
• Jordan: King opens 5th International Conference of Royal Medical Service
• Food inspection system is changing
• Crown Prince donates SR 1 million for Saudi Society of Critical Care Medicine
• 244 cases reported
• Liow briefs MPs about flu fight
• Type-A (H1N1) cases pass 2,000 mark
• Ismail backs firm measures
• Flu hits UM orientation week
• Dh19.5m Abu Dhabi Grant for Yemen Hospital

This entry was posted on Saturday, July 4th, 2009 at 6:21 am and is filed under Saudi Arabia. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.