In a move to improve safety measures, the UAE Health Ministry has changed rules governing vaccination for pilgrims who intend to perform Hajj, where it is mandatory for all prescribed vaccinations to be taken not less than fifteen days before travel.
Due to the changes made in the guidelines of the UAE Health Ministry concerning the Hajj pilgrimage, it is pertinent for those intending to go for Hajj pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia to get vaccinated. All shots including influenza are to be administered not less than 15 days before the trip according to the new protocol which has increased the time from previously recommended ten days.
MoHAP has cited the need for all the pilgrims to undergo several important vaccinations way before their travel dates in a bid to ensure that the vaccines work as intended towards affording the travelers sufficient protection during their pilgrimage.
Pilgrims are also advised to ensure that the photographs of their vaccinations are taken on the international vaccination card at recognized health facilities and they should also obey all the health practices as recommended before and during the journey. Pilgrims should ensure they take all the required vaccinations as required before embarking on their Umrah and Hajj obligations in Saudi Arabia, with focus on influenza vaccination among others.
Earlier, MoHAP stated that as from March 26, 2019, the pilgrims would be required to present a certificate of influenza vaccination. In March, authorities had made it mandatory for all Haj and Umrah pilgrims to take the flu jab prior to their trips. This is on top of the required meningococcal vaccine (quadruple). Pneumococcal vaccine is also advised for those who are 65 years old or older and those who have a chronic disease.
Healthwise, officials also recommend passengers particularly those with health issues, to schedule their vaccination appointments with health facilities at least a week before their travel plans. Fridley vaccines can be obtained from both government and private hospitals and clinics to reduce and control the spread of infectious diseases.
Thanks to the Haramain High-Speed Train, pilgrims who travel to Jeddah Airport for the Hajj pilgrimage can now easily head to Makkah more comfortably and much faster than before.
