MAKKAH: Religious scholars are advising Haj pilgrims not to use hand sanitizers that contain perfume while in ihram and use scentless disinfectants instead.
Sheikh Ahmed bin Hamad Al-Mazroua, a judge at the Court of Cassation in Makkah, said the use of scented sanitizers while pilgrims are in ihram is a violation of the rules of ihram. “There are plenty of scentless sanitizers which pilgrims can safely use,” he added.
Sheikh Al-Mazroua made the comments as hand gels and other disinfectants grow in popularity to ward off swine flu. “Pilgrims should make sure the sanitizers and disinfectants they use during Haj are scentless so as not to commit any violation that might harm their pilgrimage,” he said.
Tawafa establishments and Haj groups have been keen to place large quantities of hand gels, including sanitizers, at the entrances of their camps in the holy sites.
Fear of swine flu has increased demand for disinfectants and facemasks by up to 100 percent. According to pharmacists, the price of these materials have increased by 50 to 100 percent, especially since pharmacies are running out.
