Egypt

Egyptian pilgrim fatalities continue to rise

Egyptian pilgrim death totals continue to rise, now reaching 10, authorities announced.

The latest fatality took place Wednesday morning. The deceased suffered from a heart disorder caused by kidney failure.

The majority of Egyptian pilgrim deaths are due to sudden health problems or complications from chronic diseases, according to MENA.

Meanwhile, Egypt Air announced the last flight to escort pilgrims to Saudi Arabia will run on Wednesday. That flight included, the airline has organized 276 flights and carried more than 75,000 pilgrims.

Saudi authorities say there are 470,000 more pilgrims in 2010 compared to the previous year.

The high numbers have caused overcrowding in airports, with some pilgrims forced to wait lengthy periods to fly. Saudi authorities also report problems with accommodation.

Last year, Egypt banned patients with chronic diseases as well as Muslims below 25 and above 65 from making the Hajj to avoid the spread of the H1N1 virus.

Related Articles

Back to top button