UAE mandates influenza vaccination for Umrah and Haj pilgrims
Al Hosn app provides approved vaccination cards for travel checkpoints
UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) Mandates Influenza Vaccination for Umrah and Hajj Pilgrims
The UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) has announced the enforcement of mandatory influenza vaccination for all UAE pilgrims traveling to Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah and Hajj rituals. This significant measure underscores the Ministry’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding the health and well-being of pilgrims, Hajj performers, their families, and the wider community against infectious diseases.
Key Measures Implemented:
- Mandatory Vaccination: Pilgrims are required to receive all necessary doses of vaccination, with a particular emphasis on the influenza vaccine, before embarking on their journey to Saudi Arabia.
- Presentation of Vaccination Cards: Starting from March 26, 2024, all travellers to Saudi Arabia must present proof of their influenza vaccination through vaccination cards at checkpoints.
- Early Health Center Visits: The Ministry strongly advises pilgrims, especially those with chronic illnesses, to visit health centers well in advance of their departure date to ensure timely vaccinations and medical consultations.
Guidelines Before Travel:
- Vaccination Timing: It is crucial to administer vaccinations at least ten days before travel to ensure their effectiveness and provide adequate immunity.
- Medical Consultation: Individuals with chronic conditions should consult their physicians to assess their health stability and suitability for undertaking Hajj and Umrah. They should also ensure an adequate supply of medications.
- Adherence to Immunization: Pilgrims must adhere to all necessary and recommended immunizations and engage in regular exercise to maintain overall health.
Exemptions and Vaccination Cards:
- Individuals who have received the influenza vaccine within the past year are exempt from obtaining a new vaccination.
- Approved vaccination cards can be obtained through the Al Hosn application and presented at travel checkpoints for verification.
Dr. Hussein Abdul Rahman Al Rend, Assistant Undersecretary for Public Health Sector, emphasized the Ministry’s concerted efforts to prioritize the health and safety of pilgrims, particularly those with chronic diseases, the elderly, pregnant women, and lactating mothers. He highlighted the coordinated efforts of state institutions to ensure the well-being of pilgrims during their journey, aiming to mitigate potential health risks, including infectious and chronic diseases.
National Vaccination Campaign:
Aligned with the national vaccination policy, MOHAP has launched a comprehensive campaign to vaccinate pilgrims against influenza. This initiative reflects the UAE’s commitment to combating infectious diseases and enhancing health security standards.
Dr. Nada Al Marzouqi, Director of the Public Health and Prevention Department, stressed the effectiveness of vaccinations as preventive measures and urged all Hajj and Umrah pilgrims to adhere to vaccination guidelines. The Ministry continues to provide vaccination services across health centers, emphasizing the importance of preventive measures to minimize health risks during the pilgrimage.
Overall, the enforcement of mandatory influenza vaccination for Umrah and Hajj pilgrims underscores the UAE’s proactive approach to ensuring the health and safety of its citizens and residents, as well as fulfilling its commitment to international health standards and protocols.
