Dutch Muslims planning to go on pilgrimage to Mecca this year are worried about the possibility of contracting Mexican flu, according to ANP reports.

Some travel agencies specialised in the Hajj wonder if it is wise to travel to the holy city in Saudi Arabia.

One Rotterdam travel agency says bookings to Mecca have dropped by 50 percent compared to last year but also acknowledges the recession as a possible contributing factor.

On Tuesday, the Egyptian government advised those who are elderly, ill, pregnant or very young not to go on pilgrimage this year. The announcement came after a 25-year-old Egyptian woman died from Mexican flu on Saturday after returning from Mecca.

Approximately two million Muslims from around the world participate in the Hajj each year.
 

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