Health regulations for pilgrims: vaccinations and those excluded during Hajj 1447
The Saudi Public Health Authority (Weqaya) has announced a set of updated medical requirements for the 1447 AH Hajj season. These measures aim to ensure the highest health standards for pilgrims, in line with specialized medical guidelines designed to prevent the spread of epidemics and provide a safe and healthy environment for all pilgrims.
Historically, Saudi Arabia has placed great importance on managing the millions of pilgrims during Hajj seasons. Over the past decades, it has developed a comprehensive healthcare system that has become a global model in preventative medicine. The application of these standards not only impacts the local level but also contributes to regional and international health security by reducing the cross-border transmission of infectious diseases as pilgrims return to their home countries, reflecting the Kingdom's leading role in protecting global public health.
Mandatory vaccinations are among the health regulations for pilgrims
The authority emphasized the necessity for all pilgrims and workers in the holy sites to receive a set of essential vaccinations. At the top of this list is the meningococcal vaccine, which must be administered at least ten days before travel. The authority also added the requirement for vaccination against COVID-19 with an updated dose for the 2025-2026 season, or completion of the required vaccinations, or proof of recovery during the current year, 2025.
The official requirements also included mandating that those arriving from specific countries receive the polio vaccine (inactivated or oral) according to strict timelines. Additionally, yellow fever vaccination is required for those arriving from endemic countries in Africa and the Americas, provided they are over nine months of age.
List of categories medically excluded from Hajj
To ensure the safety of pilgrims and alleviate the burden on the healthcare system, the Ministry of Health has established strict health eligibility criteria. Those with underlying medical conditions, such as kidney dialysis patients and those with symptomatic heart failure that manifests with minimal exertion, are excluded. The ban also extends to patients with oxygen-dependent lung disease, advanced liver cirrhosis, and those with active infectious diseases such as open pulmonary tuberculosis and hemorrhagic fevers.
The exclusion list was extended to include cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy or immunosuppression, those with severe neurological and psychiatric conditions affecting cognition, and those with advanced dementia. The authority also warned against the pilgrimage for pregnant women in their final months or those facing high-risk pregnancies.
Internal Medicine Specialist Dr. Fawaz Al-Hawzani
Risks of heat stress and climate change
In a related context, Dr. Fawaz Al-Hawzani, an internal medicine specialist, emphasized that large gatherings of millions of people increase the likelihood of disease transmission, necessitating a high level of health awareness. He also warned of climatic risks, explaining that heat exhaustion results from fluid loss and causes dizziness, low blood pressure, and can even lead to fainting.
He pointed out that heatstroke is more dangerous, as it raises the body temperature above 40 degrees Celsius, accompanied by dry skin, necessitating immediate cooling and transfer to a medical facility. He recommended avoiding direct sunlight by using umbrellas, drinking plenty of fluids, and that those taking diuretics consult their doctor before traveling. He also stressed the importance of wearing masks in crowded places, using tissues when sneezing, and avoiding walking barefoot.
Food safety and physical rehabilitation guidelines
Dr. Al-Hawzani urged pilgrims to strictly adhere to food safety guidelines by thoroughly cooking food, washing fruits, and avoiding uncovered foods or damaged canned goods. To prevent common respiratory illnesses, he advised completely avoiding contact with camels on farms or in markets, not consuming unpasteurized milk, and ensuring they receive the seasonal flu vaccine.
He concluded his instructions by urging pilgrims to improve their physical fitness at least three weeks before Hajj. He also stressed the importance of carrying a detailed medical report on their health condition and avoiding sharing personal items such as razors to ensure they can perform the rituals safely.
