A deadly wave of pneumonia has affected 99 Indonesian pilgrims currently in Saudi Arabia for the 2025 Hajj, with one death already confirmed, according to the Indonesian Ministry of Health.
The announcement was made on Thursday by Liliek Marhaendro Susilo, head of the Hajj Health Center, who warned that the spike in pneumonia cases is a serious concern. She stressed that pneumonia can worsen quickly if not treated properly.
The infected pilgrims are receiving medical attention in hospitals across Mecca and Medina. Health officials are closely monitoring their condition and providing intensive care.
According to Liliek, several factors are contributing to the rise in cases. These include the extremely high temperatures in Saudi Arabia — reaching up to 47°C — physical stress from the demanding Hajj schedule, crowded conditions, and existing health issues such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or asthma.
She urged all pilgrims to take preventive steps seriously. “Wear masks, wash hands regularly, drink enough water, and keep taking prescribed medication if you have any health conditions,” she said.
Liliek also advised pilgrims to conserve their strength, avoid smoking, and quickly report any signs of illness to medical staff. These steps, she said, are crucial to ensuring a safe and successful pilgrimage.
The Hajj pilgrimage attracts millions of Muslims from around the world every year. While it is a deeply spiritual journey, it also poses health risks due to the large gatherings, harsh climate, and intense physical activities involved.
In recent years, Saudi authorities and health ministries from various countries have worked together to improve medical support for pilgrims. However, health emergencies like pneumonia still remain a challenge, especially for elderly pilgrims and those with underlying conditions.
