The Factors Affecting the Response of 2019 Pilgrims toward Preventive Measures Against SARS and other Respiratory Infectious Diseases in Hajj

Abstract

Purpose: This study aims to evaluate the response of pilgrims at Almadinah Almunawwarah Airport toward knowledge of preventive measures on respiratory infectious diseases, and to study the factors affecting the response of pilgrims to prevent infectious diseases such as SARS. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted at Almadinah Almunawwarah airport in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Pilgrims who arrived at the city airport of Almadinah Almunawwarah (during the pilgrimage season in 2019) were invited to participate in this study. The tool used to collect data was a paper-based questionnaire. Results: The respondents' mean age was 39.8 years with a range of 18 to >50 years and a median age of 35–50 years. The findings indicated that 82.8% of the study participants reported overcrowding could increase the risk of infections. In addition, 67.4% of them agreed that cardiovascular and heat-related illnesses are major causes of death in travelers to the Hajj. With regards to attitudes about 70% agreed that visiting a physician before travel is essential whereas 73.7% of them agreed that personal hygiene protects them from many diseases. Conclusion: The current study shows that knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward preventive measures against respiratory infectious diseases, such as SARS, among pilgrims, are generally less acceptable if contrasted with their ways toward preventive procedures.