MP proposes quarantining Hajjis to prevent swine flu spread
Tehran Times Social Desk

TEHRAN – Pilgrims who come back from hajj must be quarantined in case they are carrying the N1H1 virus also known as swine flu virus, MP Omidvar Rezaii suggested on Wednesday.

In this way those infected with the disease are identified and receive the necessary treatment, Rezaii, who sits on the Majlis Health Committee, told reporters.

He also urged health officials to heighten public awareness about the disease and be more honest when making remarks about it in order to prevent the spread of the disease in the country.

“Those physicians and Health Ministry officials who have information about the disease must show honesty in their behaviors and talks with people.”

For example, he said, in a meeting hosted by the Majlis Health Committee, some Health Ministry officials announced that about 80 percent of people who go on hajj are infected with the virus but on a television program they said about 7 to 10 percent of pilgrims catch the disease.

Asked whether applicants must not have gone to hajj due to swine flu, he said, “I do not say that pilgrims must not have gone to hajj but I believe it must have been done at a more limited way.”

He added pilgrims must have received more training before heading for the hajj

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