Senegal has reported the detection of Covid-19 cases in dozens of pilgrims who returned from their Hajj journey in Mecca, Saudi Arabia.
According to the Senegalese health ministry, 78 cases of Covid-19 were confirmed through tests conducted at Dakar’s Blaise Diagne International Airport.
The health ministry stated that the results were not surprising, as returning pilgrims had been advised to wear masks and self-isolate.
Authorities have stepped up surveillance to prevent the spread of the virus.
This development comes after Saudi officials reported that more than 1,300 people died during this year’s Hajj pilgrimage, blaming the fatalities on extremely high summer temperatures.
The Hajj pilgrimage, which attracted over 1.83 million Muslims, including 12,900 from Senegal, has been a concern for health authorities due to the risk of Covid-19 transmission.
The symbolic stoning of the pillars, which involves large crowds and no social distancing, has been a particular concern.
Deadly stampedes have occurred in the past during this event.
Senegal’s health ministry has urged returning pilgrims to seek medical attention immediately if they experience any symptoms of Covid-19.
The government has also implemented measures to prevent the spread of the virus, including contact tracing and quarantine.
In a related development, as earlier reported by Diaspora Digital Media, not less that 1,301 pilgrims passed away in Mecca during the 2024 Hajj as a result of excessive heat.