Ninety-nine hajj pilgrims from Indonesia have reportedly contracted pneumonia while waiting to perform their pilgrimage in the Holy Land of Saudi Arabia.

Jakarta (Indonesia Window) – Ninety-nine hajj pilgrims from Indonesia have reportedly contracted pneumonia while waiting to perform their pilgrimage in the Holy Land.

The number, totaling ninety-nine hajj pilgrims, is a serious concern for the Indonesian Ministry of Health, considering that pneumonia is an acute respiratory infection that can be fatal, especially for pilgrims with vulnerable health conditions or comorbidities, the ministry said in a written statement quoted by Indonesia Window on Friday.

Data collected by the Indonesian Hajj Health Clinic, both in the Mecca and Medina Working Areas as of May 20, 2025, cut-off at 4 pm Saudi time shows that pilgrims who contracted pneumonia are spread across various sectors and groups.

According to the Indonesian Ministry of Health, they are currently undergoing intensive care at referral hospitals in Mecca and Medina, Saudi Arabia.

"We have noted an increase in pneumonia cases among our hajj pilgrims. Out of 99 cases of pneumonia, one pilgrim died from the disease. This is a condition that must be watched out for, because it can develop into something more serious, if not treated quickly and appropriately," said Liliek Marhaendro Susilo, Head of the Hajj Health Center, at the Indonesian Hajj Health Clinic in Medina on Wednesday (May 21).

Pneumonia is an inflammation of the air sacs in the lungs (alveoli) which can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. In a dense hajj environment with extreme heat, the risk of transmitting respiratory infections is higher.

The Indonesian Hajj Health Clinic identified several risk factors that tend to trigger pneumonia cases among hajj pilgrims, including:

Extreme heat. Based on the clinic’s real-time data, today's temperature in Mecca and Medina ranges from 41-47 degrees Celsius. This high air temperature, if there is a lack of fluid intake, can cause dehydration which can make the body more susceptible to infection.

Physical fatigue, a series of dense hajj pilgrimages, from the length of the journey, the obligatory umrah (minor hajj) to the peak in Armuzna, requires strong physical stamina, so that fatigue can lower the immune system.

Crowds, transmission of diseases with the density of hajj pilgrims of up to millions of people can increase the risk of transmission of viruses or bacteria that cause pneumonia.

Pilgrims with a history of diabetes, hypertension and heart disease have a higher risk.

“We remind pilgrims to always be vigilant. Use a mask when coughing and colds as well as in crowded areas. Wash hands with soap/hand sanitizer before and after activities. Drink water/zam-zam little by little up to two liters a day. Those who have comorbidities and are taking regular medication, don't forget to take your medication regularly," Liliek said.

He also advised that the peak of the Hajj pilgrimage during Armuzna requires high stamina, pilgrims to reduce sunnah worship such as repeated umrah. Save energy and don't get too tired. Do not smoke in any place, respect others who do not smoke.

Sunnah, in the context of Islamic, refers to all the actions, words and approvals of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) which serve as examples or guidance for Muslims.

"Immediately report and check yourself when you are not feeling well to the hajj health officer and health post. The health of the pilgrims is our top priority. Let's take care of it together so that the hajj pilgrimage runs smoothly and all pilgrims return to their homeland healthy," Liliek said.

Reporting by Indonesia Window