Influenza vaccine requirements for Hajj 2009/10
Seasonal influenza
The Ministry of Health of Saudi Arabia has announced an important addition to the health requirements for pilgrims attending Hajj and Umrah during the 2009/10 season. All pilgrims intending to take part in this season’s Hajj must provide a valid certificate of vaccination against 2009/10 seasonal influenza when applying for a Hajj visa. The vaccine must be administered at least two weeks before arrival in Saudi Arabia.
Pandemic influenza
A valid certificate of vaccination against Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 (again of at least two weeks’ standing), if such vaccination is universally available, must also be provided before acquiring a Hajj visa.
Prospective pilgrims for Hajj and Umrah are further advised that the elderly and persons with chronic diseases, children and pregnant women should postpone the Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages this year for their own safety.
Meningococcal Meningitis
Incoming travellers for Hajj or Umrah or for seasonal work in the areas of Hajj from any country are required to have a valid certificate of vaccination against Meningococcal Meningitis stating that the traveller has been vaccinated at least 10 days earlier and no more than 3 years prior to their arrival in the Kingdom. Vaccination with a single dose of the tetravalent vaccine against ACYW135 is required for all adults and children over the age of 2 years.
Source: Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabian - London. Health Requirements
- http://www.mofa.gov.sa/Detail.asp?InSectionID=45&InNewsItemID=97610]