The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has released the guidelines and recommendations for this year’s Hajj season, focusing on vaccination requirements and health considerations for pilgrims.
For domestic pilgrims, the required vaccinations include a single dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, one dose of the influenza vaccine, and a single dose of the meningitis vaccine received within the past five years. These vaccinations must be documented in the “Sehhaty” app.
International pilgrims must have received the meningitis vaccine within the last 5 years, with a period of at least 10 days but not exceeding 5 years since the vaccine was administered. Additionally, they must receive at least one dose of the oral polio vaccine.
The Saudi Ministry of Health also advises countries to consider the physical fitness and health conditions of pilgrims before they embark on the journey. Conditions such as advanced kidney failure, liver cirrhosis, severe neurological disorders, and dementia in elderly pilgrims should be taken into account.
Pilgrims with chronic illnesses are encouraged to carry an adequate supply of their medications in their original packaging. It is also recommended that all pilgrims be vaccinated against common diseases to ensure their health and safety during the pilgrimage.
These guidelines aim to ensure the well-being of all pilgrims participating in this year’s Hajj season. Source: Al-Bayan newspaper.