UAE issues 12 health guidelines for safe Eid Al Adha slaughtering to prevent infections

The UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) has outlined 12 key health and safety measures for Eid Al Adha, urging the public to observe strict hygiene and use licensed facilities for animal slaughter to protect public health during the festive season.

In an awareness campaign published across its digital platforms, the ministry stressed that sacrificial animals should only be purchased from approved and licensed outlets to ensure they are healthy and free from disease, Gulf News reports.

MoHAP also warned against carrying out slaughtering in homes, farms or other unregulated locations, citing increased risks of contamination and the spread of bacteria and infectious diseases. It urged residents instead to rely on licensed slaughterhouses that comply with established health and safety standards.

The ministry advised the public to wear protective equipment, including gloves, masks and protective eyewear, when handling livestock or visiting animal markets. It also recommended minimising direct contact with animals and ensuring that individuals do not have open wounds before handling sacrificial livestock.

Further precautions before and during slaughter include maintaining strict hygiene and avoiding unsafe handling practices that could lead to infection.

After slaughter, MoHAP advised using separate cutting boards for raw meat to prevent cross-contamination, wearing gloves while processing meat, and thoroughly cleaning all tools and surfaces with hot water and soap.

The ministry also urged safe disposal of animal waste in sealed bags, frequent handwashing, and ensuring meat is properly cooked to eliminate harmful bacteria.

Residents were additionally advised to seek immediate medical attention if symptoms such as high fever, unusual bleeding, fatigue, muscle pain, nausea or diarrhoea appear within two weeks of handling animals or raw meat. Medical professionals should also be informed of any recent contact with livestock or animal products to aid diagnosis and treatment.

MoHAP said the guidelines aim to reduce public health risks and promote safe practices during Eid Al Adha celebrations across the country.

By Aghakazim Guliyev