HOLY SITES – Many pilgrims have ignored the health recommendations on the prevention of swine flu and other communicable diseases by bringing their young children on Haj.
The Saudi Press Agency (SPA) has confirmed this after observing and interviewing pilgrims over the Haj period. This is despite the warnings issued by both the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Saudi Arabian health authorities.
Abdul Majeed Ali, a Pakistani residing in Tabuk, said he had inoculated his son Ridah against the swine flu.
He pointed out that he was forced to bring his son along because he did not have anyone in Tabuk to take care of the boy.
“Being a father, I am determined to ensure the safety of my only son. If I had any other alternative, I would not have brought him with me. I wish there was a center that cared for the children of pilgrims. I would have left my son with them until I completed my Haj rituals. I am sure most pilgrims don’t mind being charged for such a service,” said Ali.
Ahmad Hassan Mustafa, a pilgrim from Egypt, who was buying food from a shop in Mina, looked very happy to have his son, in Ihram, with him.
Surprisingly, Mustafa said that he did not vaccinate his son Yousif against the swine flu. He said he relied on Almighty Allah to protect him and his boy. He pointed out that he followed all the rules on basic hygiene and other preventive measures such as personal cleanliness and avoiding crowded areas.
Sheikh Abdul Mohsen Al-Bakr, one of the preachers participating in the Dawa and Guidance during Haj, outlined the advice contained in the Shariah on this matter.
“It is obligatory for every Muslim to obey the instructions of their leaders in this regard and to listen to the advice of the authorities concerned. A father’s role is to look after his family because Almighty Allah entrusted him to care for his family in his capacity as guardian.” He quoted a Hadith to support his view.
“Every one of you is a guardian and is responsible for those under him. A prince who rules over people serves as a guardian because he is responsible for his people. Also, a man is a guardian because he is responsible for his family and the same is applicable to a woman.”
Al-Bakr said that if a father risks the life of his children and something bad happens to them, then Almighty Allah will punish him for this.
Moreover, Islam makes physical ability and fitness mandatory for those who intend to perform Haj. – SPA