World
Saudi Arabia Races to Contain Epidemic in Islam’s Holiest City
- Crowded slums, labor camps hastened spread of virus in Mecca
- Most cases are foreigners, sparking debate on role in society
Muslim worshippers visit the sacred Kaaba in the Grand Mosque, in Mecca, on April 3.
Photographer: -/AFP via Getty Images
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Saudi authorities are racing to contain an outbreak of coronavirus in the Islamic holy city of Mecca, where crowded slums and labor camps have accelerated the spread even with much of the country under a 24-hour curfew.