Riyadh - Mubasher: Saudi Arabia announced health protocols for this year's Hajj season to prevent the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19), Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported.  

Earlier, Saudi Arabia allowed the Hajj of this year to go forward only with a small number of pilgrims, limited to Saudi citizens and residents aged 65 or younger, who are already in the kingdom.

The measures include a ban of entry to holy sites, including Mina, Muzdalifah, and Arafat, without permission between 19 July and 2 August, according to a statement by the Saudi Center for Disease Prevention and Control (Saudi CDC).

Pilgrims who are suspected for COVID-19 can proceed with their Hajj, subject to the evaluation of the specialist doctor. They will join the suspected cases group and use separate building and transportations.

Organisers who show influenza symptoms will be banned from work until symptoms disappear. Moreover, wearing face masks will be mandatory for both pilgrims and organisers all the time.

Social distancing protocols of at least a meter and a half shall be maintained between pilgrims.

Sharing of personal equipment and tools between individuals will be prohibited. Disinfection for surfaces will be carried out on a regular basis, this includes high-touch spots such as entry points, seats, waiting areas, door handles, and food tables.

Furthermore, touching or kissing the holy Kaaba or the Black Stone is prevented, the Saudi SDC noted, adding that pilgrims will be home quarantined for two weeks after performing their Hajj.

Other measures concerning water and food, hygiene, and transport were also outlined.