Doctor Urges Hajj Pilgrims to Bring a 'Mini-Pharmacy' During Armuzna
JAKARTA — Ahead of the peak phase of Hajj 1447 H/2026 CE in Arafah, Muzdalifah, and Mina (Armuzna) in Saudi Arabia, Indonesian Hajj pilgrims are being urged to prepare a personal ‘mini-pharmacy’. This should comprise personal medicines, vitamins, and other medical supplies that can fit into a small bag easily carried during the pilgrimage. Indonesian Hajj doctor Dr. Muhammad Fathi Banna Al Faruqi said the ‘mini-pharmacy’ can help pilgrims stay healthy and self-reliant amid Armuzna’s crowded, physically demanding conditions.
According to Dr Fathi, when Indonesian Hajj pilgrims depart for Armuzna, their larger suitcases will be left at the hotel. Consequently, pilgrims will only carry a backpack containing essential items. Therefore, personal health equipment becomes crucial so that minor ailments can be addressed early rather than escalating, he said in Makkah on Thursday (21 May 2026).
One of the most important items to bring is oral rehydration solution (Oralit). The hot weather during Armuzna heightens the risk of dehydration, particularly for elderly pilgrims. ‘Oralit can be a lifesaver when the body feels weak, dizzy, or loses fluids due to the heat,’ he explained.
In addition to oral rehydration solution, pilgrims are advised to carry a petroleum jelly-based moisturiser without fragrance to prevent chafing on the thighs and heels from long distances walked to the Jamrah stoning locations. ‘Small blisters can become a major problem during Armuzna as pilgrims must walk extensively,’ he noted.
To address common complaints such as headaches, muscle aches, or mild fever, pilgrims are also advised to carry analgesics such as paracetamol, deemed relatively safe for most people.
Dr Fathi also emphasised the importance of bringing medicines for regular use with a stock of at least five to six days. The medicines should be kept in the Armuzna bag, not in the large suitcase left at the hotel. ‘Do not let routine medicines be left behind. This is particularly important for pilgrims with underlying illnesses,’ he said.
Additionally, simple items such as plasters, anti-acid tablets, anti-diarrheal medicines, and even camphor oil or aromatherapy are recommended to be available in the pilgrim’s small bag.