Saudi authorities drop meningitis vaccine condition for Umra pilgrims

Saudi Arabia Drops Meningitis Vaccine Requirement for Umra Pilgrims, Only Polio Vaccine Now Mandatory

ISLAMABAD: In a significant relief for Umra pilgrims, Saudi Arabia has removed the requirement for the Neisseria meningitis vaccine, making the polio vaccine the sole mandatory immunization for travelers heading to the Kingdom for religious purposes.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) issued a circular suspending the previously announced vaccination requirement, which was scheduled to take effect on January 7, 2025.

This decision comes in response to concerns over vaccine shortages and the circulation of fake meningitis vaccination certificates in Pakistan. With no central authority overseeing the administration of the meningitis vaccine, pilgrims were facing difficulties in obtaining the necessary immunization. Reports emerged of fraudulent vaccination certificates being issued by a private laboratory in Islamabad to meet the high demand.

Initially, Saudi authorities had mandated that all individuals traveling on Umra visas or planning to perform Umra, regardless of visa type, must receive the meningitis vaccine. However, recognizing the challenges faced by travelers and the unavailability of the vaccine in many regions, the Kingdom has reversed its stance.

Health officials and travel agents have welcomed this move, stating that it will reduce the burden on pilgrims and curb fraudulent vaccination practices. With only the polio vaccine now required, travelers can proceed with their plans without the added stress of securing the meningitis shot.

This change is expected to simplify travel arrangements and ensure a more efficient pilgrimage experience for the thousands of Pakistani Muslims heading to Saudi Arabia for Umra.