IGMH Opens Dedicated Flu Clinic for Returning Hajj Pilgrims

Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH) has opened a special flu clinic to provide medical care for Maldivians returning from the Hajj pilgrimage, as part of efforts to prevent the spread of seasonal illnesses.

The clinic, located in Room 10 of the former GOPD area, will operate daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Services at the clinic include doctor consultations and blood sample collection.

According to IGMH, the clinic was established in response to the increased risk of disease transmission that often coincides with the return of Hajj pilgrims during the seasonal flu period. The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has echoed these concerns and has advised the public to exercise caution.

Patients seeking treatment at the flu clinic are required to first report to the Emergency Room (ER) triage counter. After obtaining a flu clinic token via the QB token system, they will be directed to the clinic or ER by the triage staff. IGMH has urged all patients to wear masks when consulting with doctors.

This year, 1,000 Maldivians travelled to Saudi Arabia to perform Hajj. The first flight carrying returning pilgrims is scheduled to arrive in Malé today at 2:00 PM. In light of infection prevention measures, the HPA has advised against bringing children to the airport to receive returning pilgrims.