Hajj and Umrah are pilgrimages to Mecca for the Islamic religion that take place in Saudi Arabia. While Hajj takes place at specific times of the year, Umrah can take place at any time. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, the pilgrimage was attended by over 1 million pilgrims across the globe annually.
The pilgrimage occurs from the eighth to thirteenth days of the Islamic calendar’s final (12th) month.
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Health usually issues the recommendations and requirements for vaccinations and entry visas for Hajj and Umrah every year.
It’s worth noting that Hajj and Umrah are physically demanding. Consider postponing your visit if you:
– Are above the age of 65
– Have health problems like lung, kidney, or heart disease
– Are suffering from a terminal sickness like cancer
– Have health issues that compromise your immune system
– Are pregnant
– Are aged 12 years and under
It is highly recommended that you get the Meningitis ACWY vaccine before going for Umrah or Hajj, irrespective of your age. It’s a requirement that pilgrims on Hajj and Umrah present an ACWY vaccination certificate if they are over the age of two and is an entry requirement to Saudi Arabia. You should get the certificate ten days before arriving.
The Meningitis ACWY vaccine protects you against meningitis and septicaemia that appear because of the ACWY strains of meningitis. You should also get the meningitis ACWY vaccine if you are travelling to countries such as Sub-Saharan Africa.
After the International Health Regulations of 2005, all travellers from countries or Yellow Fever prone areas have to present an up-to-date Yellow Fever vaccination. Failure to provide a valid certificate can result in an individual being put under firm surveillance for six days after vaccination or from the last period of exposure to the infection.
Stoke Travel Clinic can provide all your necessary Hajj and Umrah vaccines in Stoke-on-Trent!
Find out what vaccines you need for your destination and book your appointment now.