We’ve officially entered Eid travel season! And whether you’re jetting off on holiday or preparing for Hajj, doctors say this is the time to take your health seriously, too. With crowded airports, packed gatherings, and rising temperatures, health experts are urging travellers to stay alert against flu-like viruses, MERS-CoV, and other infections that spread quickly during the busy travel period. So before take-off, here are a few important ways to stay safe during your trip!
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1. Travellers Should Watch Out For Flu-Like Symptoms
Doctors say one of the biggest concerns during Eid and Hajj travel is that many viral infections initially look just like the regular flu. Travellers are being advised to stay alert for symptoms including:
- Fever
- Severe fatigue
- Muscle pain
- Headaches
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Abdominal pain
- Unusual weakness
Health experts explained that illnesses like MERS-CoV can develop within two to 14 days after exposure, while Ebola symptoms may sometimes appear within two to 21 days. They also stress that early medical attention is extremely important to treat and prevent further spread.
2. Wash Your Hands More Than Usual
Proper hygiene remains one of the easiest and most effective ways to avoid infections while travelling. Doctors say these simple habits can significantly reduce the chances of catching or spreading respiratory illnesses during large gatherings. Travellers are strongly encouraged to:
- Wash their hands frequently
- Carry alcohol-based sanitisers
- Avoid touching their face
- Wear masks in crowded or poorly ventilated areas
3. Avoid Unsafe Food & Untreated Water
Travellers should be extra careful about what they eat and drink during their journey. In fact, travellers have also been told to avoid contact with camels and to avoid consuming raw camel products. These products have a high risk of MERS-CoV transmission in the Arabian Peninsula. Travellers are advised to avoid:
- Untreated water
- Improperly stored food
- Raw or undercooked meals
4. Don’t Ignore Heat Exhaustion & Dehydration
While infectious diseases remain a concern, y heat-related illnesses are also a major risk, especially during the Eid and Hajj season. Dehydration and heat exhaustion can become dangerous very quickly, especially during long hours outdoors. With temperatures rising across the region, travellers are being reminded to:
- Stay hydrated throughout the day
- Avoid excessive sun exposure
- Take breaks when needed
- Get enough rest
5. Keep Medications & Medical Records Ready
It goes without saying that travellers should never leave important medications until the last minute. Travellers with chronic illnesses have also been encouraged to consult their doctors before departure to ensure they are medically fit to travel. Medical experts advised people to carry:
- Sufficient medication supplies
- Prescriptions
- Medical summaries
- Emergency contact details
6. High-Risk Travellers Should Take Extra Precautions
Elderly travellers, pregnant women, and people with chronic medical conditions should be especially cautious during busy travel periods. Medical professionals recommend that high-risk individuals seek medical advice before travelling and avoid ignoring symptoms if they start feeling unwell during or after the trip.
7. Update Your Vaccinations Before Travelling
Healthcare professionals strongly recommend completing important vaccinations before travelling for Hajj. Under Saudi regulations, the quadrivalent meningococcal vaccine remains mandatory for pilgrims. Doctors also recommend influenza and updated COVID-19 vaccines. This applies especially to elderly travellers and those with underlying health conditions.
8. Seek Medical Help Early If You Feel Unwell
According to healthcare professionals, global travel and mass gatherings can allow illnesses to spread rapidly if symptoms are ignored. Travellers should seek medical attention early if they experience flu-like symptoms during or after travel. This particularly applies after attending crowded events or travelling through high-risk regions.
Right now, the only thing you should be bringing back from your Eid or Hajj trip is good memories, extra shopping bags, and maybe a few airport snacks. If you are jetting off during the long break, stay safe, travel smart, and keep reading Gulf Buzz for all the latest updates!
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