DHA holds twitter clinic, discusses Hajj health tips.

United Arab Emirates, Dubai, September 11, 2013: The Dubai Health Authority(DHA) held today a  live twitter clinic to discuss health aspects before, during and after the Hajj pilgrimage.

The two-hour live DHA clinic @DHA_Dubai addressed Q and A's on health aspects during the Hajj pilgrimage and DHA's panel of experts disseminated  several health tips with regard to vaccinations, prevention of health strokes, ways to avoid food-poisoning and health precautions for a safe Hajj.

Dr Fatma Al Attar, head of preventive services at the DHA said: “ The first most important step for any hajj pilgrim is to avail of the necessary vaccines, at least ten days in advance.”

Al Attar said that while the meningococcal vaccine is mandatory, the flu and pneumonia vaccines are highly recommended for immmocomprised patients and those with chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart problems.

She also highlighted that because of the risk of certain respiratory diseases, the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Health has recommended that the following groups should postpone their plans for Hajj and Umrah this year: people over 65 years old, children under 12 years old, pregnant women, people with cancer or terminal illnesses, people with chronic diseases (such as heart disease, kidney disease, diabetes, or respiratory disease.)

She advised that people should carry enough stock of their medications, especially if they suffer from a chronic disease that requires them to take medications regularly. She added: “Carry your prescription and a detailed report of the medical diagnosis and history.”

Al Attar also advocated that people with low immunity should ensure they get all necessary vaccines done and that they wear masks in crowded places so as to minimize the risk of respiratory infections. She said, “The mask should be replaced every six hours. Other basic precautions such as drinking lots of fluids to keep oneself hydrated, consuming foods rich in vitamin C, regular hand washing, use of hand sanitizers is essential. All pilgrims should also beware of salmonella poisoning which can occur when food is uncooked or undercooked or kept outside for long hours.  Pilgrims should ensure that they consume food within two hours of it being cooked.  Food which is cooked and kept at room temperature or in the bus beyond two hours, is prone to get bacterial growth which can lead to serious problems such as food poisoning.”

Dr Nusaiba Al Behandy, Specialist Registrar at the Al Mankool Traveler's Clinic said that people who want to shave or cut their hair during the pilgrimage should follow certain precautions to avoid transmission of infectious diseases such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C and Aids. “Ensure the barber is licensed and that he uses a single use razor and disposes the blade immediately. Never share shaving equipment with others and do not walk barefoot to ensure no used needle or razor can prick your leg.”

Dr Nouf Al Awadi, Specialist Registrar at the Al Barsha Traveler's Clinic said that it's important for Hajj pilgrims to protect themselves from heat exhaustion and sun strokes. “Avoid Tawaf, Sa'i, Arafat and Mina during high temperatures or ensure that you are well protected against the sunrays and are well hydrated.”

Al Awadi said it's important to know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion/sun stoke. “ If one experiences high body temperature, nausea, fatigue, cramps, thirst, headaches or excessive sweating, it's important to move away from a sunny place, cool the body with cold water and if necessary, head to the nearest medical facility.”

The DHA panellists advocated that it is important to rest after Hajj and drink lots of fluids to help the body recover.

Al Attar said: “During Hajj, pilgrims realise the importance of physical fitness. They should use this experience to regularize their health and fitness routines.”

She said following these basic guidelines is essential to ensure a safe Hajj pilgrimage.

The DHA will discuss the good, bad and ugly side of cosmetic procedures such as botox and fillers during its next live Twitter clinic which will take place on the 19thof September from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. If you have any specific query, do join the clinic and tweet your queries @DHA_Dubai.