Senegal has confirmed 78 cases of Covid-19 among pilgrims returning from Hajj in Mecca, according to tests conducted at Dakar’s Blaise Diagne International Airport.

The country’s health ministry stated that the detection of Covid-19 cases was anticipated, as returning pilgrims had been advised to wear masks and self-isolate upon arrival.

Senegalese authorities have intensified surveillance measures in response to the confirmed cases.

Saudi officials recently reported over 1,300 deaths during this year’s Hajj pilgrimage, attributing them to extreme summer temperatures. The large gatherings during rituals like the symbolic stoning of pillars have historically posed challenges for social distancing, leading to deadly stampedes in the past.

In total, 1.83 million Muslims participated in the 2024 Hajj, with Senegal alone sending 12,900 pilgrims.