The Gambia ministry of health has issued a statement asking returning Hajj pilgrims to undergo mandatory Covid-19 tests amid new outbreak among Senegalese pilgrims.

“The ministry of Health wishes to inform the public that all arriving Pilgrims for 2024 Hajj are required to undergo a mandatory test for Covid-19 using the Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT) upon arrival at the Banjul International Airport.

“We solicit the continuous support and cooperation of the public in its efforts to prevent the possible spread of Covid-19 in the country. Returning pilgrims that tested positive at The Gambia International Airport are advised to observe the following safety precautions to prevent the spread of the Covid-19 virus,” the ministry said in a statement.

The ministry also issues a public health measures for returning pilgrims including maintaining social distance and wearing masks and those with symptoms should report to the nearest health facility if the need arises. 

“If sick, they should be admitted to Ndemban Clinic for proper medical attention.”

It also urged them to avoid poorly ventilated or crowded spaces and to regularly wash hands or use a hand sanitiser.

“Widespread mask-wearing should be promoted as a “new normal” for the foreseeable future, until viral spread is extremely low or vaccination creates sufficient immunity in the general population Reduce exposure to high-risk environments (e.g., crowded indoor gatherings) are also critical to limiting the spread of COVID-19 People should be encouraged to take the vaccines including the boosters,” the statement added.

Reporting by Adama Makasuba