The Ministry of Health of the Kingdom Saudi Arabia (KSA) have published their health requirements and recommendations for 2017 Hajj and Umrah pilgrims and seasonal workers [1]. The NaTHNaC Hajj and Umra factsheet has been updated to reflect any changes. 

Hajj, the annual pilgrimage to Makkah (Mecca), in KSA is one of the largest gatherings of its kind in the world. The event occurs between the 8th and 12th day of the twelfth month of the Islamic calendar every year. This year it is predicted that Hajj 1438H will take place between 30 August and 4 September 2017. Due to the large crowds, mass gatherings such as Hajj and Umra are associated with unique health risks.

Pilgrims over two years of age who intend to undertake Hajj or Umra and seasonal workers, are required to provide proof of vaccination against meningococcal disease ACWY in order to obtain a visa for entry into KSA. Updated requirements from KSA state that the conjugate vaccines (Menveo or Nimenrix) confer protection for ‘at least five years’. The vaccines should have been administered not more than 5 years and not less than 10 days prior to entry in to KSA [1]. 

Further advice and recommendation for Hajj and Umra pilgrims can be found in the NaTHNaC factsheet.

Source: Travel Health Pro (NaTHNaC)