Hajj pilgrims begin returning to Maldives

Maldivian Hajj pilgrims have begun returning to the country following the completion of this year’s pilgrimage.

A total of 1,000 pilgrims travelled under the care of the Hajj Corporation. The first group arrived at Velana International Airport at 2:00 pm today.

According to officials, the second group is expected to return at 11:00pm on Sunday, while the third group will arrive at 2:00pm on Monday via Maldivian Airlines. The final group is scheduled to land at 11:00 pm on Tuesday.

Ahead of their return, flu clinics have been set up at Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH) and Hulhumalé Hospital. Both hospitals have urged pilgrims experiencing fever or flu-like symptoms to seek care.

Pilgrims requiring treatment should first go through ER triage, where they will be directed either to the flu clinic or the emergency department as appropriate.

To minimize the risk of disease transmission, Health Protection Agency (HPA) has advised the public to limit the number of people greeting returning pilgrims at the airport.

Speaking at a program on PSM, HPA public health coordinator Mohamed Hamzath urged people to limit travel and gatherings, particularly during the rainy season when mosquito-borne illnesses are more prevalent. He noted that the rainy season coincides with peak periods for pilgrims returning from Hajj and Umrah, typically in June, July, August, December, and January.

HPA has advised anyone going to the airport to wear a mask, especially if experiencing cold-like symptoms. If pilgrims develop a fever within 14 days of returning, they should seek medical attention and inform their doctor about their recent travel history.

Dr Ibrahim Iyaz, assistant medical director at Treetop Hospital and a consultant in family medicine, said large crowds often including children and the elderly typically gather at the airport, raising the risk of disease transmission.

Dr Iyaz also urged returning pilgrims to avoid large gatherings for at least two weeks, especially in the first week after arrival. He advised against meeting with young children, the elderly, or those with underlying health conditions during this period.