Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Health has issued a stern advisory urging both domestic and international pilgrims to ensure they are vaccinated against various infectious diseases ahead of the upcoming Hajj pilgrimage in 2024.
The ministry emphasized the critical importance of vaccination to safeguard the health and well-being of all participants in the annual pilgrimage, which draws millions of Muslims from around the world.
Domestic pilgrims, in particular, have been urged to receive specific vaccinations prior to embarking on their journey. These include one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine administered during the period of 1445 (2023-2024), one dose of the seasonal influenza vaccine administered within the same timeframe, and one dose of the meningococcal vaccine received within the past five years. The ministry assured that these vaccines are readily available at primary healthcare centers across the Kingdom, with appointments easily scheduled through the Sehhaty app.
Highlighting the significance of vaccination amidst the large congregations during Hajj, the ministry stressed that such mass gatherings pose a heightened risk of infectious diseases spreading. By ensuring pilgrims are vaccinated, Saudi health authorities aim to mitigate these risks and promote a safe and healthy pilgrimage experience for all participants.
For international pilgrims, the Ministry of Health outlined specific vaccinations deemed crucial for their participation in Hajj. These include vaccinations against meningococcal disease, yellow fever, and polio. International pilgrims are advised to check the Ministry of Health website for detailed health requirements pertaining to their Hajj journey.
The announcement comes as part of Saudi Arabia's ongoing efforts to prioritize public health and safety, especially in light of the continuing global COVID-19 pandemic. With Hajj being one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, the kingdom is taking proactive measures to ensure the well-being of pilgrims and prevent the spread of infectious diseases within its borders and beyond.
As preparations for the 2024 Hajj pilgrimage continue, authorities are urging all pilgrims to adhere to these vaccination guidelines and cooperate with health officials to ensure a successful and healthy pilgrimage season.
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