Latest news with #Al-Jalajel
Saudi Gazette
09-07-2025
- Health
- Saudi Gazette
Saudi Arabia adopts World Drowning Prevention Day as national health priority
Saudi Gazette report RIYADH — Saudi Arabia has officially adopted World Drowning Prevention Day, marking July 25 of each year as a national observance dedicated to raising awareness and enhancing water safety, following a Cabinet session chaired by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Jeddah on Tuesday. Minister of Health Fahad Al-Jalajel said the decision reflects the Kingdom's firm commitment to safeguarding public health and preventing avoidable injuries and deaths. He added that it aligns with the goals of the Health Sector Transformation Program, part of Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to build a vibrant society and ensure the well-being of all residents. Al-Jalajel praised the efforts of national health and safety agencies in formulating and implementing the National Drowning Prevention Policy, which has helped reduce drowning-related fatalities by more than 17% per 100,000 people. This, he noted, has saved the Saudi economy approximately SR800 million, according to validated local and international reports. The minister emphasized that Saudi Arabia's adoption of this day is part of its broader 'Health in All Policies' approach. He said it reflects the Kingdom's global leadership in water safety, noting that the World Health Organization ranked Saudi Arabia first in 2024 among 140 countries for meeting the highest standards in water safety and rescue protocols. Al-Jalajel added that the health system will continue to implement preventive awareness campaigns and rapid response programs, while expanding collaboration with relevant sectors to ensure the highest standards of water safety whether in homes, recreational facilities, tourist destinations, or public beaches and swimming pools. He concluded by affirming that the ministry, in partnership with stakeholders, remains committed to promoting community awareness, developing preventive policies, and creating a safer, healthier environment for all.
Gulf Insider
01-06-2025
- Climate
- Gulf Insider
Saudi Arabia Reports Five Heat Exhaustion Cases Among Pilgrims, Urges Precautions Amid Soaring Temperatures
As temperatures soared at the holy sites, Saudi Arabia confirmed five cases of heat exhaustion among the more than one million pilgrims who have arrived to perform Hajj rituals. All those affected received immediate medical attention and are currently in a stable condition, according to the ministry of health, which added that health teams were on high alert to respond swiftly to similar cases as part of the Kingdom's commitment to safeguarding the health and safety of pilgrims. The country's National Center for Meteorology has forecast hot to extremely hot weather conditions at the holy sites during this year's Hajj season. According to the center, maximum temperatures are expected to range between 40°C and 47°C, while minimum temperatures will vary between 27°C and 32°C. Humidity levels are projected to fluctuate between 15 percent and 60 percent. In a post on its X account, the ministry urged pilgrims to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, and follow official health guidelines, such as using shaded walkways, wearing appropriate protective gear, and seeking help at the first signs of fatigue. 'If not treated promptly, heat exhaustion can escalate to heat stroke within 10-15 minutes — a life-threatening medical emergency,' the post stated. The ministry also advised pilgrims who experience heat exhaustion symptoms to begin immediate cooling measures, such as washing their hands, faces and necks with cold water and moving to a cooler area, as well as drinking plenty of cold water to rehydrate. In its post, the ministry identified headache, excessive sweating, nausea, dizziness, and severe thirst as key clinical symptoms of heat exhaustion. Multilingual awareness campaigns have been launched, and field preparedness has been reinforced, particularly in response to seasonal heat risks. The ministry had announced the health sector's readiness to receive pilgrims, revealing a 60 percent increase in bed capacity compared with last year. Fahad Al-Jalajel, the minister of health, recently confirmed the deployment of over 50,000 medical and technical personnel to serve pilgrims and emphasized the stability of the health situation, with no reported outbreaks or epidemics, according to the Saudi Press Agency. 'Health efforts began early in pilgrims' homelands by analyzing international health risks and issuing clear health requirements, including vaccinations against yellow fever, meningitis, polio, COVID-19, and influenza,' SPA reported, citing Al-Jalajel. The minister underscored the role of the health certificate as the first line of defense during the Hajj season, noting that the Kingdom's health system launched its services with the arrival of the first Makkah Route Initiative flight. As part of the Kingdom's comprehensive preparations, 14 land, air, and sea ports have been fully equipped, delivering more than 50,000 health services so far, including 140 surgical procedures, 65 cardiac catheterizations, and six open-heart surgeries, the minister said. To combat heatstroke risks, Al-Jalajel announced a series of measures in coordination with the Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites. These include planting more than 10,000 trees, installing 400 additional water coolers and misting fans, and expanding shaded pedestrian pathways to protect pilgrims from extreme heat. The ministry of health has also intensified awareness efforts through multilingual campaigns, stationing field teams, launching media programs, and organizing medical missions to ensure important health information reaches all pilgrims. Al-Jalajel further revealed the establishment of a new 200-bed emergency hospital in Mina, developed in collaboration with Kidana Development Co. In addition, three new field hospitals with more than 1,200 beds have been set up in partnership with the ministries of national guard, defense, and interior. These were inaugurated 'alongside 71 emergency points, 900 ambulances, 11 evacuation aircraft, and over 7,500 paramedics,' Al-Jalajel told SPA. The minister urged pilgrims to follow health guidelines and affirmed that the Kingdom's health system is operating at full capacity to ensure a safe and healthy Hajj season for all.
Roya News
26-05-2025
- Health
- Roya News
Saudi Arabia reveals comprehensive safety plan for Hajj season 2025
Saudi Health Minister Fahd Al-Jalajel confirmed Monday that the general health conditions among Hajj pilgrims remain reassuring, with no outbreaks or epidemic threats detected so far. Speaking at a press conference in Riyadh, Al-Jalajel detailed the Ministry's preparations for the Hajj season, including the deployment of 11 air ambulance aircraft, 900 ambulances, and 71 medical points across the holy sites. Three field hospitals with a combined capacity of over 1,200 beds have been set up in coordination with the Ministries of Defense, Interior, and the National Guard. Additionally, a new emergency hospital with more than 200 beds has been established in Mina, raising the overall hospital bed capacity by 60 percent compared to last year. Al-Jalajel also revealed that critically ill pilgrims have been equipped with smart sensor devices linked to the Virtual Health Hospital—the largest of its kind globally—allowing remote monitoring of their conditions. So far, over 50,000 health services have been delivered through 14 land, air, and sea entry points, with 140 surgeries and 65 cardiac catheterizations performed. The minister stressed that pilgrims' adherence to preventive guidelines is crucial to ensuring a safe and healthy pilgrimage. To mitigate heat stress, the Royal Commission for Makkah and the Holy Sites has planted over 10,000 trees, installed 400 water dispensers, and placed misting fans across key locations. In related announcements, Minister of Transport and Logistics Services Saleh Al-Jasser said rubberized and cooled walkways have been expanded, and drones are being used to monitor pilgrim movement.
Saudi Gazette
26-05-2025
- Health
- Saudi Gazette
Al-Jalajel: No epidemic cases reported among pilgrims
Saudi Gazette report MAKKAH — Minister of Health Fahd Al-Jalajel confirmed that no epidemic cases have been detected among pilgrims to date. Addressing the government Hajj conference in Makkah on Monday, he said that the bed capacity allotted for the Hajj season of 2025 has been increased by 60 percent compared to last year. Al-Jalajel said that the plans developed by the Supreme Hajj Committee ensure a suitable environment for Hajj. He emphasized the importance of adhering to these plans, ensuring adequate water and umbrellas during high temperatures, and avoiding crowds and long walks. The minister highlighted the importance of pilgrims adhering to preventative measures, grouping instructions, and wearing masks. He urged pilgrims not to hesitate to seek help and assistance in any condition of sickness. He reviewed the ministry's preparations for this year's Hajj, explaining that the ministry's services began simultaneously with the arrival of the first batch of pilgrims through the "Makkah Route" Initiative. Al-Jalajel said that a new emergency hospital with a capacity of 200 beds has been established in Mina. He noted that more than 50,000 health services have been provided to pilgrims across 14 ports. Three field hospitals with a total capacity of over 1,200 beds have also been equipped in cooperation with the Ministry of Defense, Ministry of Interior, and the Ministry of National Guard. Regarding the technologies used to enhance the Hajj health system, Al-Jalajel confirmed that all hospitals are equipped with advanced technologies for all medical services. He also emphasized the use of technologies provided by the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) for monitoring the number of pilgrims, temperatures, and other information. He explained that the SEHA app provides medical services and consultations to pilgrims at their residences, without the need to travel to hospitals. This is achieved through a direct connection to the SEHA Virtual Hospital. "Pilgrims suffering from critical conditions have been equipped with smart sensors to monitor their health conditions. These sensors are connected to the SEHA Virtual Hospital, which is the largest of its kind in the world," he said. Regarding efforts to deal with emergency cases, Al-Jalajel indicated that 11 air evacuation aircraft have been provided for emergency cases, in addition to 900 ambulances, and 71 first aid points staffed by more than 7,500 paramedics.
Leaders
28-04-2025
- Health
- Leaders
Stride into Health: Saudi Launches 'Walk 30' Public Fitness Drive
Saudi Health Minister Fahad Al-Jalajel spearheaded a community walk at Riyadh's Sports Boulevard on Saturday, marking the launch of the Walk 30 public health campaign. The initiative aims to boost physical activity nationwide, targeting a minimum of 150 weekly minutes per participant. Al-Jalajel emphasized that Walk 30 tackles sedentary lifestyles, a critical health issue affecting over 80% of Saudis. The program promotes walking 30 minutes daily to foster lasting behavioral changes, reduce chronic disease risks, and enhance overall well-being. Surpassing National Fitness Milestones Recent data reveals promising progress: 58.5% of Saudi adults now meet the 150-minute weekly activity goal, exceeding 2024 targets. Meanwhile, 18.7% of youth achieve the recommended 60 daily minutes of exercise. These efforts align with Vision 2030's life expectancy target of 80 years, with current averages rising to 78.8 years. 'Walk 30, now in its fifth season, serves as a cornerstone of our health transformation under Vision 2030,' Al-Jalajel stated. He highlighted that consistent walking slashes heart disease risk by 30% and stroke likelihood by 40%. With summer temperatures rising, Al-Jalajel urged residents to prioritize evening walks, hydration, and shaded areas. He also showcased the Healthy Mall program, operational since 2019, which converts shopping centers into air-conditioned walking tracks with water stations and nutritious dining options. Authorities transformed malls into vibrant fitness spaces, offering safe environments for families to walk year-round. The initiative now spans multiple cities, reflecting growing public enthusiasm for accessible health solutions. Global Ambitions for Walk 30 Success Al-Jalajel revealed plans to expand Walk 30 internationally, citing collaboration with WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus during its fourth season. 'Our seasonal programs—from winter to summer—can inspire global partnerships,' he said, underscoring Saudi Arabia's leadership in scalable health innovations. Building on this momentum, Walk 30 continues to unite communities, proving that small daily steps can drive transformative national change. Short link : Post Views: 1
