Senegalese pilgrims returning from the 2024 Hajj in Mecca have tested positive for Covid-19 upon arrival at Blaise Diagne International Airport (AIBD) in Dakar.
The Ministry of Health and Social Action of Senegal confirmed that since the beginning of the pilgrims’ return, seven flights have landed at AIBD, with 124 pilgrims tested, of whom 78 were detected positive for SARS-CoV-2.
This year, 12,860 Senegalese participated in the Hajj. The extreme heat during the rites tragically caused the deaths of five Senegalese pilgrims, who were buried in Mecca. According to Saudi authorities, the pilgrimage was marked by over 1,300 deaths in total.
In response to the Covid-19 cases and the deaths, the Ministry of Health and Social Action has reinforced health surveillance measures at the borders. Screening tests will continue as more pilgrims return.
Measures taken to prevent the spread of the virus include the pre-identification of pilgrims showing flu-like symptoms, systematic screening upon arrival, mandatory mask-wearing during flights, and the cancellation of gatherings for pilgrims who test positive.
Authorities have urged pilgrims to contact the nearest health facility if they experience symptoms and to report any complications related to their return from pilgrimage.
The ministry has prepared facilities to treat severe cases of Covid-19 and calls on the population to remain vigilant, especially with the approach of the couscous festival, a highly celebrated community event in Senegal. Authorities are closely monitoring the development of new coronavirus cases to prevent an epidemic in the country.
The Ministry of Health and Social Action continues to emphasize the importance of public cooperation and adherence to safety measures to ensure the health and well-being of all citizens during this critical time.
Source: BBC News Afrique
