MADINAH: WITH temperatures soaring above 40 degrees Celcius in Makkah and Madinah, Malaysian haj pilgrims have been warned to take extra precautions to protect themselves against the blistering heat.
Three years ago, temperatures peaked at 56 degrees during wukuf in September, and 57 degrees was recorded in Madinah.
According to Tabung Haji officials, average temperatures this year was expected to be 46 degrees Celcius, with very low humidity levels making it difficult for the body to regulate itself through sweating.
Pilgrims must therefore make every effort to protect themselves from heatstroke which can be fatal if not properly or promptly treated.
Haj will fall in the hot summer months of September, August, July and June for about eight more years.
Pilgrims have been advised to avoid the direct rays of the sun, use umbrellas, drink a lot of water and soft drinks, cover their heads, and wear light clothes.
Vice Consul of Malaysian haj affairs Affandi Abdullah said it was imperative for pilgrims to take care of their health.
"They must drink lots of plain water to prevent dehydration and follow Tabung Haji's instructions. They should also not overexpose and overstrain themselves before wukuf, the most critical period of the haj."
During wukuf, pilgrims will be out in the open or in tents in Arafah, spending their day in prayer and reflection. Wukuf is the highlight of the haj pilgrimage, one of the world's largest annual gatherings.
"We will offer drinks to prevent dehydration at specific stations," he told Malaysian media at the Tabung Haji office in Madinah.
The first batch of Malaysian pilgrims would be arriving this Saturday.
A Tabung Haji medical officer said those impacted by heat would first experience cramps which they might think was due to physical activity.
"The second stage is heat exhaustion which causes headaches, nausea and vomitting. The third stage - heatstroke - results in unconsciousness and organ failure."
He said those exhibiting the symptoms in Madinah can visit the respective zone clinics at Al-Haram Hotel, Anwar Al Madinah Mövenpick Hotel and Al Rawda Al Aqeeq Hotel.
They will be open daily from 7am to 12.30pm, 4pm to 6pm, and 8pm to 10.30pm.
For emergencies, medical assistance is available around the clock.
Aside from the clinics at the respective accommodation zones, there are also treatment centres at the airports as well as mobile clinics.
Get the latest World Cup 2018 scores, highlights and updates from our dedicated World Cup page