Making Haj free from Zika, MERS

This file photo shows, Muslim pilgrims gather at the Plain of Arafat during the annual pilgrimage, known as the hajj, near Makkah, Saudi Arabia. (AP)

RIYADH: The Health Ministry will focus on the prevention of infectious diseases such as the MERS and Zika during Haj. The ministry will also be carefully monitoring diseases such as cerebral spinal fever, meningitis, yellow fever and polio among the incoming pilgrims, said an official. The ministry is focusing on educating pilgrims on personal hygiene such as drinking bottled water, washing hands with soap, using disposable shaving razors, abstaining from eating exposed foods and requesting them to keep away from scorching sun. The ministry is also distributing literature advising pilgrims on precautionary measures.