WHO calls for strengthened heat preparedness as Iraq prepares for Arbaeen pilgrimage

As millions of pilgrims prepare to walk to Karbala and Najaf for the Arbaeen pilgrimage, the World Health Organization (WHO) in Iraq is calling for strengthened heat protection measures as the WHO Regional Office's pilot Heat-Health Risk Assessment for Iraq indicates that this year's Arbaeen is expected to coincide with the highest temperatures observed during the current lunar cycle. The assessment projects daytime temperatures of around 45°C and nighttime temperatures remaining above 30°C along parts of the pilgrimage routes, highlighting the importance of comprehensive preparedness and simple preventive measures to protect pilgrims, volunteers, health workers and host communities.

Arbaeen is one of the world's largest annual mass gatherings, with more than 22 million pilgrims expected to travel to Iraq, many walking long distances over several days. Combined with prolonged heat exposure, physical exertion and crowded conditions, these circumstances significantly increase the risk of heat-related illness, making coordinated preparedness and public health action essential.

The Arba'een pilgrimage in the holy city of Karbala. Photo: Internet.

The Heat-Health Risk Assessment carried out by WHO, classifies 10 of Iraq's 18 governorates as high risk for heat-related illness this summer, including Karbala, Najaf, Babil and the southern governorates along the main pilgrimage routes. Parts of southern Iraq now experience around 70 days each year with temperatures above 45°C, with peak temperatures frequently exceeding 50°C, making them among the fastest-warming areas in the region. 

Extreme heat can rapidly lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke while worsening cardiovascular, respiratory, kidney and other chronic conditions. The risk increases when high temperatures combine with prolonged walking, inadequate hydration, insufficient rest.

Heat also places additional pressure on electricity, water and health services at a time when millions of pilgrims rely on access to safe drinking water, cooling and timely medical care. WHO recognizes the extensive preparations being undertaken by the Government of Iraq, governorate authorities, health directorates, religious institutions and volunteers to support a safe Arbaeen and continues to work alongside national and local partners to strengthen emergency preparedness, frontline response, risk communication and health coordination.

"Protecting the health of pilgrims is a shared responsibility," said Dr Jamela Al-Raiby, WHO Representative in Iraq. "As this year's Arbaeen is expected to coincide with exceptionally high temperatures, strengthening preparedness and adopting simple preventive measures will be essential to reducing heat-related illness. Ensuring access to safe drinking water, shaded rest areas, timely medical care and clear health information can help protect lives and enable pilgrims to complete their journey safely."

WHO also calls on organizers and authorities to continue integrating heat protection into every level of Arbaeen preparedness by ensuring:

• Safe drinking-water stations and shaded rest areas along pilgrimage routes; 
• Heat illness triage, cooling, rehydration and referral services; 
• Real-time surveillance and weather-informed heat alerts;                                                                               
• Reliable electricity and water supplies for health facilities; 
• Targeted health communication for pilgrims, volunteers and people with chronic diseases;
• Clearly identified health posts and emergency access routes. 

In partnership with the Ministry of Health, governorate health authorities, religious institutions and local partners, WHO continues to support Arbaeen preparedness through emergency preparedness, health worker training, risk communication and strengthened coordination to help protect the health of millions of pilgrims.

"Heat-related illness is largely preventable," Dr Al-Raiby added. "Through shared responsibility, early planning and simple protective measures, we can protect lives, strengthen the resilience of health services and help ensure a safe and healthy Arbaeen for every pilgrim."

Key messages for pilgrims

• Drink safe water regularly don't wait until you feel thirsty. 
• Rest frequently in shaded or cooled areas, even at night. 
• Protect yourself from direct sunlight by wearing light, loose-fitting clothing. 
• Look after older people, children, pregnant women and people with chronic diseases. 
• If you have a chronic medical condition, continue taking your medicines and carry enough for your journey. 
• Seek medical care immediately if you or someone with you develops dizziness, confusion or faints. 

For further information, please contact:

WHO Country Office in Iraq
Dr Alyaa Mohamed
Public Health Officer

mohamedal@who.int