Senegal has taken steps to screen returning Hajj pilgrims for Covid-19 following concerns about a respiratory syndrome that may have contributed to deaths among pilgrims in Mecca. The country’s Health Minister, Ibrahima Sy, stated that the deaths, initially attributed to heatwaves, are now suspected to be linked to a respiratory illness. To monitor the situation, Senegal has implemented voluntary Covid-19 screening tests and reimposed mask-wearing at Dakar’s international airport for returning pilgrims.
A team has been deployed at the airport to provide screening tests and identify pilgrims with flu-like symptoms. The health ministry has also urged the population to be vigilant and cautious to prevent the spread of any potential epidemic. Out of 124 rapid diagnostic tests conducted, 78 proved positive for Covid-19, with 36 of those later confirmed by PCR tests.
The decision to implement screening measures came after the Senegalese medical team based in Jeddah reported a significant number of passengers experiencing respiratory problems. The Senegalese daily L’Observateur reported that five Senegalese nationals were among the deceased at the Hajj pilgrimage.
Saudi Arabia’s official news agency SPA reported 1,301 deaths at the annual hajj pilgrimage, with temperatures reaching as high as 51.8 degrees Celsius. Over 80% of the pilgrims, who were mainly engaged in outdoor rituals, were considered unauthorized and walked long distances in direct sunlight.
The Hajj, one of the five pillars of Islam, requires Muslims with the means to complete the pilgrimage at least once in their lifetime. This year, Saudi officials stated that 1.8 million pilgrims participated, with 1.6 million coming from abroad.
