Meningitis Recommendations for Haj and other Pilgrimages

Every year over two million Muslims from around the world make the Hajj pilgrimage to Makkar (Mecca) in Saudi Arabia. A shorter pilgrimage, Umrah can be performed at any time during the year also attracts many visitors annually. It is estimated that Hajj will fall between 4 and 7 November 2011.
The Hajj consists of several rituals that symbolise devotion to God, brotherhood and unity and all Muslims are required to perform Hajj once in their lifetime if financially and physically able.

Vaccinations

If you are travelling to Hajj or Umrah you should make sure you are up to date with all your routine vaccinations such as Diphtheria, Tetanus and Polio. It is also recommended that you check you have received 2 doses of Measles, Mumps and Rubella or had the illnesses in childhood.

All travellers are required to be vaccinated against Meningitis ACWY and a certificate of vaccination is required for entry.

Sussex Travel Clinic is partner of the Muslim Council of Britain Meningococcal (ACWY) vaccination package programme and offer the vaccine at a reduced rate of £35 per dose- please call 01273 749100 to book or discuss.

Seasonal Flu- the Ministry of Health of Saudi Arabia recommends that pilgrims should be vaccinated with the flu vaccine before travel. Flu can be easily spread in crowded conditions through coughing and sneezing. You may be entitled to a free flu vaccinated from your NHS GP or we can provide a flu vaccine at the clinic. Clinics commence in October 2011.

Pilgrims should consider vaccination against Hepatitis B. Hepatitis B is a virus that is spread through blood contact or sexual contact.All males attending Hajj must have their heads shaved and the Saudi government provides licensed barbers who will use a new blade for each pilgrim, however unlicensed barbers may not do this. Sharing razors carries a risk of contracting blood borne viruses such as Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C and HIV. It is much safer to bring your own disposable razor.

Yellow Fever vaccination - the Saudi Arabian government requires travellers who arrive from yellow fever risk countries to be vaccinated against Yellow Fever. This is not a requirement if travelling from the UK. Yellow Fever risk countries can be viewed here Yellow Fever Risk Countries.

Travelling to Hajj can pose some health risks. The Hajj can be very physically demanding especially in the hot heat of Saudi Arabia so you will need to take plenty of high factor sun cream. Clean water and sanitation is harder to maintain in conditions like the Hajj, it is important to make sure you drink plenty of fluids and carry clean drinking water. A useful leaflet is available in several languages with tips on keeping healthy when travelling to the Hajj and Umrah- you can view it here.