Hajj pilgrimage is a large mass gathering global event that may facilitate the spread and emergence of various
infectious diseases as well as antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in a local and global scenario. Planning and preparing for these public health issues is a challenging and complex process for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) health authorities. Despite multiple efforts for the prevention and treatment of
infectious diseases through longtime funding in education and medical care, the prevalence of
infectious disease is still high among Hajj pilgrims. The commonly observed
infectious diseases during Hajj include
respiratory tract infections (
influenza and
pneumonia),
urinary tract infections and skin
infections that may necessitate the use of antimicrobials.
Beta-lactams are used as a first-line treatment for hospital acquired
infections as well as
community acquired infections due to their broad-spectrum activity. However, most of the bacterial isolates such as Staphylococcus spp., Pseudomonas spp. and E. coli are resistant to
beta-lactams. Irrational use of antimicrobials, lack of
infection prevention practices and suboptimal healthcare access further exacerbate the risk of spreading AMR among Hajj pilgrims. Enhanced collaboration between countries, sharing of best practices and international cooperation are crucial in addressing AMR threats among pilgrims. Consequently, robust surveillance systems for early detection and monitoring of AMR, collaboration with national as well as international healthcare agencies, effective
infection prevention and control measures, public awareness and rational use of antimicrobials via antimicrobial stewardship programs are required to mitigate the risk of AMR and ensure the health and well-being of pilgrims during Hajj.