RIYADH: The Ministry of Health announced on Friday that 58 cases of malaria have been detected among pilgrims from eight countries.
All 58 cases were reported among incoming pilgrims, as Hajj areas are free from malaria-carrying mosquitoes, the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported.
Of the number, 56 have been treated and two are still being treated in a hospital, the SPA added.
The ministry said that malaria is endemic in a number of Islamic countries, and the number of cases observed during Hajj varies from year to year depending on the activity of the disease in the countries where the pilgrims come from.
It added that in the epidemiological aspect, monitoring and investigation of malaria during the Hajj season are aimed at detecting cases as quickly as possible.
The ministry said this is being done through rapid screening methods and treating all cases by classification.
“The prevention of endemic diseases in Hajj areas depends on continuous insect monitoring and prevention of carrier return to these areas,” the ministry said.
It added that in the same context, public health teams visited the headquarters of pilgrimage missions with malaria infections among their pilgrims’. The purpose of the visit was to coordinate the evaluation and treatment of the mosquito-borne infectious disease at the pilgrim’s residence using rapid detection, and to provide full on-site service and coordination for the transfer of cases requiring intravenous medications to hospitals.
58 malaria cases registered among foreign pilgrims in Saudi Arabia
58 malaria cases registered among foreign pilgrims in Saudi Arabia
Taif festival celebrates Saudi Arabia’s literary icons
- It introduces visitors to the contributions of literary pioneers through accessible visual and narrative content
TAIF: A special section highlighting key Saudi literary figures forms part of the Writers and Readers Festival in Taif.
The area explores the lives of distinguished writers, poets, and authors who have shaped the Kingdom’s creative landscape, influencing literature, journalism, theater and intellectual thought.
It introduces visitors to the contributions of literary pioneers through accessible visual and narrative content, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Sunday.
Organized by the Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission, the festival runs until Jan. 15 and features 42 prominent publishing houses from Saudi Arabia and overseas, offering visitors the chance to explore the latest works in literature, philosophy and general knowledge.
Meanwhile, the festival’s interactive murals section engages visitors with openwork art panels, allowing them to contribute to the city’s features and identity.
The murals depict Taif’s natural and historical landmarks, including Al-Hada Mountain, the Taif rose gardens, and traditional Hijazi palaces. Others are inspired by Souq Okaz, a historic literary and commercial center linked to the region’s poetic heritage.
Designed by a visual artist, they blend folk-inspired elements with imaginative expression, creating a collaborative experience that celebrates the city’s beauty and brings art closer to the public.
