Before travelling to Saudi Arabia for Hajj and Umrah, it’s paramount to confirm with the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office for up-to-date information and regulations. It’s also critical to be familiar with the required vaccinations for Hajj and Umrah in Coventry.
Every year, pilgrims from the Islamic religion travel to Saudi Arabia for Hajj and Umrah. Unlike Umrah that can occur at any time of the year, Hajj only happens at specific times. Over one million people across the world usually attend the pilgrimage.
The pilgrimage takes place from the 8th to 13th days of the final month of the Islamic calendar.
Under its Ministry of Health, the government of Saudi Arabia issues the regulations and recommendations regarding vaccinations and entry requirements for Hajj and Umrah each year.
It’s essential to be physically fit since Hajj and Umrah are typically physically exhausting. It’s a good idea to postpone your journey if:
– You are over the age of 65
– You’re combating health issues like lung, heart, and kidney disease
– Your immune system is weak
– You have a terminal illness such as cancer
– Are pregnant
– Are the age of 12 or below
Get in touch with us for consultations in plenty of time before you travel. The ideal time is 6 to 8 weeks in advance. Inclusive of COVID-19 regulations, Hajj and Umrah vaccinations include:
Meningitis ACWY (Meningococcal & Meningitis)
It’s advisable to get the meningitis ACWY vaccination regardless of your age prior to attending Hajj and Umrah. All children above the age of 2 must present an ACWY vaccination certificate before attending Hajj and Umrah in Saudi Arabia. The issuance of the certificate needs to be ten days prior to the arrival.
The meningitis ACWY vaccination safeguards you from meningitis and septicaemia that cause the four strains of meningitis i.e., ACWY. People going to countries like Sub-Saharan Africa should also consider getting the meningitis ACWY vaccine.
Yellow Fever
The International Health Regulations 2005 requires all travellers who arrive from countries or places that are yellow fever endemic to have a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate. This certificate shows that one had the vaccine ten days prior to travelling. Lack of the certificate will lead to the individual being placed under strict observation for six days.
Check out our latest blog post for more information about yellow fever through the button below:
Polio
Every traveller coming from polio-endemic countries or re-established transmission places must get one dose of Oral Polio Vaccine no matter the age or vaccination status. Six weeks before travelling, proof of vaccination against polio is needed when applying for Saudi Arabia’s entry visa. Travellers will also get a dose of Oral Polio Vaccine at the border points after reaching Saudi Arabia.
Seasonal Flu
In Saudi Arabia, it’s advisable to receive seasonal influenza vaccinations during internal pilgrimages. This is most vital for those at risk and all medical workers at the Hajj destination.
Visit The Travel Health Clinic to get your vaccinations for Hajj and Umrah in Coventry today. You can book your appointment and check out our other services in Coventry and across the UK here:
Our Ultimate Vaccine Guide Book Your Vaccine
This blog post was written on behalf of The Travel Health Clinic by Pharmacy Mentor.
