Mandatory Meningitis Vaccination for Hajj and Umrah Pilgrims Starting February 2025
Saudi authorities have announced that all individuals planning to perform Umrah or visit the holy sites must receive a meningitis vaccination starting February 1, 2025. This decision is part of the Kingdom’s efforts to enhance health measures, ensuring the safety of pilgrims and visitors during the large gatherings associated with religious seasons.
Morocco’s Preparedness and Vaccine Availability
In response to this decision, Morocco’s Ministry of Health and Social Protection announced that meningitis vaccines are available in sufficient quantities across pharmacies nationwide. The ministry clarified that citizens can purchase the vaccine and visit certified health centers or the Pasteur Institute’s vaccine center for administration and receive an official vaccination certificate.
Vaccination Guidelines
The ministry emphasized that individuals must receive the vaccine at least ten days before their travel date. Children under one year of age and individuals who have been vaccinated against meningitis in the past five years are exempt from this requirement, provided they present proof of prior vaccination. A list of certified health centers providing the vaccine is available on the ministry’s official website.
Ensuring Public Health
This Saudi decision aligns with broader efforts to enhance public health, with vaccination being a key step in reducing infectious diseases and ensuring the safety of pilgrims in large gatherings. The Moroccan Ministry of Health urges citizens planning to travel to Saudi Arabia to adhere to these measures for their health and safety.
