Pilgrims travelling to Saudi Arabia for the haj pilgrimage are also recommended to ensure they are up to date with other nationally recommended vaccinations. -- PHOTO: REUTERS
SINGAPORE (The Straits Times/ANN): Singapore pilgrims making the haj pilgrimage to Mecca need to get meningococcal, influenza and Covid-19 vaccinations before leaving for Saudi Arabia.
The Ministry of Health and the Communicable Diseases Agency, in a joint statement on May 9, said pilgrims must show proof of getting a single shot of the updated Covid-19 vaccine for the 2024-2025 season or completing a primary vaccination series or laboratory-confirmed recovery from an infection in 2024.
The updated advisory was issued after consulting the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore, or Muis, the statement added.
Pilgrims must also get the meningococcal vaccine – which protects against illnesses like meningitis, septicaemia and pneumonia – at least 10 days before departure, and the influenza jab not more than 12 months before travelling.
Pilgrims must also provide proof of vaccination, the statement added.
“This is to safeguard the health of haj pilgrims throughout their journey, and better protect them from infections while overseas,” it said.
Haj pilgrims were informed of the new requirements earlier, so that they would have time to arrange for the shots before the haj season starts in early June.
Haj pilgrims also need to ensure they are up to date with other nationally recommended vaccinations listed in national immunisation schedules.
The statement said: “For example, elderly and medically vulnerable pilgrims should take the pneumococcal vaccine prior to their trip.
“Pilgrims should also be aware of the health situation and entry requirements in Saudi Arabia.”
Those intending to travel to Saudi Arabia for the umrah – a minor pilgrimage – should adopt the same recommendations for better protection.
Prospective pilgrims need to consult their healthcare provider for a travel health risk assessment, four to six weeks before travel, before purchasing a haj package from Muis-appointed travel agents.
This includes advice on required or recommended vaccinations and preventive medication.
The statement said: “Pilgrims are advised to coordinate with their preferred healthcare provider on obtaining the necessary vaccinations, checking the vaccine availability at clinics, and receiving any other recommended preventive medications.”
Pilgrims should also carry physical vaccination certificates and digital vaccination records via the HealthHub app for border checks in Saudi Arabia.
In January, Singapore and Saudi Arabia struck a deal to allow 900 slots for Singaporeans to perform the haj pilgrimage in 2025. - The Straits Times/ANN
