All UAE health centres to vaccinate Haj pilgrims

ABU DHABI // All ministry health centres in the UAE now provide Haj and Umra vaccines, the ministry of health has announced.

Dr Mahmoud Fikri, assistant undersecretary for health policies at the ministry, said everyone planning to go on Haj or Umra must receive vaccines, and as early as possible.

He said the conditions, passed on to them by Saudi Arabia, states that all pilgrims must receive a vaccine against meningitis at least 10 days before arrival to the country. Those vaccinated more than three years ago will need to retake the vaccine.

Dr Fikiri added that pilgrims should take seasonal influenza vaccines, particularly if they suffer from heart problems, kidney failure, respiratory diseases, diabetes, or have low immunity.

All food brought into the country also needs to be sealed.