Health authorities urge Hajj pilgrims to receive flu vaccination and adhere to all health guidelines and precautions

The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) is taking proactive measures to ensure the health and safety of pilgrims heading to Saudi Arabia for Hajj. With vaccinations readily available across national health centers, the Ministry is advising all pilgrims to take the flu jab and receive all necessary vaccinations at least 15 days before their travel.

The Ministry emphasized the importance of vaccination in providing sufficient immunity for prevention against infectious diseases that may spread in large gatherings like Hajj. Pilgrims are urged to visit health centers well before their departure, especially those with chronic diseases, to ensure they are adequately protected.

HE Dr Hussain Abdul Rahman Al Rand, Assistant Undersecretary for the Public Health Sector, highlighted the significance of Emirati pilgrims receiving the flu shot as part of their health preparations for the Hajj season. He stressed that this measure not only protects the health of the pilgrims but also safeguards the community from potential outbreaks.

Dr Al Rand also mentioned the special attention given to vulnerable groups such as those with chronic diseases, the elderly, and pregnant or nursing mothers. Coordination between various state institutions is underway to create a safe and healthy environment for pilgrims, allowing them to perform Hajj without any health issues.

Dr Nada Al Marzouqi, Director of the Department of Public Health and Prevention, emphasized the importance of preventive measures during the Hajj pilgrimage. She advised pilgrims to take precautions against heat exhaustion and physical stress, as well as follow a healthy diet to maintain their health and well-being.

Al Marzouqi highlighted the effectiveness of vaccinations as preventive measures and encouraged all pilgrims to receive both mandatory and optional vaccinations before traveling. Vaccines for meningitis, seasonal influenza, and pneumococcal disease are readily available at health centers throughout the country.

The Ministry’s vaccination campaign for pilgrims against influenza is part of the national immunization policy aimed at reducing the spread of infectious diseases and mitigating their complications. This campaign will not only improve the health system’s capacity to respond to respiratory diseases but also enhance health monitoring mechanisms to ensure a safe and healthy pilgrimage experience.

In conclusion, the Ministry of Health and Prevention is prioritizing the health and safety of pilgrims by providing easy access to vaccinations and promoting preventive measures to protect pilgrims and the community from infectious diseases during the Hajj pilgrimage. Pilgrims are advised to heed the Ministry’s recommendations and visit health centers for necessary vaccinations before their journey to ensure a safe and healthy pilgrimage experience.