New Title: Saudi Arabia Requires Meningitis Vaccination for Umrah Pilgrims Starting 2025
The Saudi Arabian Ministry of Health has implemented a new directive requiring all incoming pilgrims to be vaccinated against meningitis before traveling to the country. This decision comes in response to a global increase in acute respiratory infections. Starting February 2025, individuals planning to visit Saudi Arabia for Umrah must provide a certificate confirming their meningitis vaccination as part of measures to prioritize public health safety.
In addition to meningitis vaccination, proof of vaccination against polio and yellow fever is also required for entry into the Kingdom. The official guidance from the Saudi Ministry of Health specifies that the MenACWY Polysaccharide Vaccine must have been administered within the past three years, while the MenACWY Conjugate Vaccine must have been given within the past five years and at least 10 days prior to arrival in Saudi Arabia.
Meanwhile, Uzbekistan is facing a worsening epidemic situation regarding meningococcal infections in some regions of the country. The Sanitary and Epidemiological Committee in Uzbekistan has issued a formal notice to the Committee for Religious Affairs, tour agencies, and airlines involved in organizing Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages. The notice highlights the growing epidemic in regions such as Tashkent, Jizzakh, and Namangan.
The World Health Organization has reported a global increase in acute respiratory infections, including meningococcal disease. With an estimated 300,000 to 500,000 meningitis cases recorded annually worldwide, and 30,000 to 50,000 resulting in death, the importance of vaccination and prevention measures is crucial.
The Sanitary and Epidemiological Committee in Uzbekistan emphasizes the necessity of extending vaccination requirements to Umrah pilgrims to prevent the spread of meningococcal infections. Recommendations for pilgrims include getting vaccinated against meningitis at least 15 days to 1 month before departure and practicing good personal hygiene to minimize the risk of airborne infections.
The Committee also advises wearing protective masks in crowded or enclosed spaces, washing hands frequently, using tissues when coughing or sneezing, avoiding contact with individuals showing signs of illness, and maintaining good personal hygiene.
Overall, the Ministry of Health in Saudi Arabia and the Sanitary and Epidemiological Committee in Uzbekistan are working together to ensure the effective implementation of meningitis vaccinations for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims to safeguard public health and prevent the spread of infections.
