Türkiye Health Ministry has reported a concerning number of injuries during this year’s Eid al-Adha celebrations, with over 14,000 people requiring medical attention after attempting animal sacrifices without professional assistance. The majority of cases involved knife-related accidents or injuries caused by animals during the sacrificial process.
Ankara emerged as the most affected region, recording 1,049 hospital admissions, followed by Istanbul (753 cases) and Konya (655 cases). Health Minister Dr. Ahmet Demircan expressed alarm at the recurring pattern, noting that similar incidents occur annually despite repeated warnings. The sudden influx of cases placed significant strain on emergency services during what should have been a peaceful religious observance.
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Authorities have intensified calls for citizens to utilize trained butchers for future sacrifices, emphasizing that professional handling prevents unnecessary harm. Many injuries could have been avoided through proper techniques and safety precautions. While most cases involved minor wounds treated through outpatient care, some required hospitalization, diverting critical medical resources.
This year’s figures show a slight decrease from last year’s 16,000 injuries, suggesting some improvement in public awareness. However, officials stress that more comprehensive education campaigns are needed to change deep-rooted practices. The ministry plans to collaborate with religious leaders to promote safer sacrifice methods before next year’s celebrations.
The incidents highlight the tension between traditional practices and modern safety standards during religious festivals. As Türkiye balances cultural customs with public health concerns, the focus remains on preserving the spiritual significance of Eid while preventing avoidable harm to participants.
