Health Ministry Issues Vaccination Guidelines for Hajj Pilgrims

Vaccination

As the Hajj season approaches, the Ministry of Public Health has emphasized the critical importance of vaccinations for those traveling to Saudi Arabia. The Ministry has outlined mandatory and recommended vaccines to ensure the health and safety of pilgrims.

All individuals aged 1 year and above are required to receive the conjugate quadrivalent (ACWY) vaccine against meningococcal meningitis. For infants aged 6-12 months, the vaccine can be administered in two doses, spaced two months apart.

In addition to the mandatory meningococcal vaccine, the Ministry recommends the following vaccines:

• Seasonal Influenza: Advised for individuals aged 6 months and above.
• Pneumococcal Vaccine: Recommended for seniors over 65 years and high-risk individuals, including those with chronic conditions such as diabetes, sickle cell anemia, renal failure, chronic respiratory issues, cardiovascular diseases, or those who are heavy smokers or immunocompromised.
• Covid-19 Vaccine: Advised for everyone aged 12 years and above.

The Ministry stressed that only healthy and well-prepared individuals should undertake the pilgrimage to handle the physical stress and health risks associated with large gatherings.

Ensuring proper vaccination before travel is a crucial step in safeguarding the well-being of all pilgrims during Hajj.