Hajj pilgrims have returned to Maldives

After completing this year's Hajj pilgrimage, all Maldivian hajj pilgrims have now returned to the country.

This year, 1000 pilgrims attended Hajj under the care of Hajj Corporation.

The first group of pilgrims returned last Friday. The second group arrived on Saturday, with the third having come back on Monday. The final group arrived in Maldives yesterday.

In preparation for the pilgrims' return, flu clinics have been opened at both Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital and Hulhumale' Hospital. Both appealed for pilgrims noticing any symptoms of flu or cold to visit the clinics.

Patients must first visit the ER triage, from where they will be directed to either the ER or flu clinic.

Each year, flu and respiratory diseases see a spike upon return of pilgrims. Health Protection Agency has called on pilgrims to consult a doctor and share travel history in the case that flu symptoms are noticed within 14 days of return.

Some hospitals have also urged pilgrims to refrain from attending large gatherings for two weeks since return. They are asked to especially avoid gatherings with elderly persons, children and those which chronic illnesses within the first week.