RIYADH: The Ministry of Health, in cooperation with the World Health Organization (WHO), has drawn up an action plan for 16 ports of entry to combat infectious diseases among this year’s Haj pilgrims.

An official from the ministry said: “This is being carried out in continuation of the mutual cooperation between the ministry and WHO, and as part of the ministry’s efforts in early preparation for this year’s Haj season to activate the duties and responsibilities of health control centers at the land, air and sea ports.”

He pointed out that the committee has conducted an inspection visit to assess the basic capabilities at each of Halat Ammar border crossing points in Tabuk, Jeddah Islamic Port, King Abdul Aziz International Airport (Jeddah) and Prince Mohammad bin Abdul Aziz International Airport (Madinah).

The committee comprises specialists from the ministry’s Public Health Agency, Communicable Diseases Control General Department, Port Health Control Department, public health consultants and a WHO expert in health control at points of entry.

During the visit, he said the committee had a closer look at the preparations and follow-up of work progress at the ports for receiving pilgrims this year, the assessment of the basic capabilities, in addition to meeting with workers at the ports and reviewing the periodic and emergency plans at these sites.

The visit also included a meeting with the respective authorities at the points of entry, developing guidelines and instructions for the health officials, identifying challenges and drawing up proposed solutions.