All Umrah pilgrims must have a meningitis vaccination at least ten days prior to their travel, according to a directive from Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Health. The most recent health recommendations for Umrah pilgrims visiting Saudi Arabia include this need.

The meningitis vaccine is now a mandatory health requirement for all Umrah pilgrims, according to travel agents who spoke to Gulf News. The law goes into force on February 10.

Mandatory vaccination requirements

To ensure compliance with Saudi Arabia’s health regulations, all Umrah pilgrims must adhere to the following requirements:

• Receive either the Meningococcal ACYWX (polysaccharide conjugate) vaccine or the Meningococcal quadrivalent (ACYW-135) polysaccharide vaccine.
• The vaccine must be administered at least 10 days before arrival in Saudi Arabia.
• The requirement applies to all travellers aged one year and older from all countries.
• Health authorities in the traveller’s country of origin must verify the vaccine administration within the validity period and clearly indicate the name, type, and date of administration on the traveller’s vaccination certificate.
• The vaccination certificate is valid for three years.

Understanding Meningitis

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), meningitis is an inflammation of the tissues surrounding the brain and spinal cord, typically caused by an infection. It can be fatal and requires urgent medical care. The disease can be triggered by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites, with bacterial meningitis being the most severe form.

Meningitis is primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets from an infected person. Common symptoms include:

• Neck stiffness
• Fever
• Confusion or altered mental status
• Headaches
• Nausea and vomiting

Where to get vaccinated

In the UAE, both public health facilities and private hospitals and clinics offer the required vaccinations for Hajj, Umrah, and other travel destinations with mandatory immunisation policies. It is advisable to schedule a pre-travel consultation at least one month before departure to allow sufficient time for vaccinations and other preventive measures to take effect.