Hajj pilgrims reminded to take travel advice before setting off

26 October 2011

The Hajj, which this year takes place from 4-9 November, is the largest annual international gathering for Muslims with two million expected to attend from around the world, including 25,000 from the UK.

The influx of such a large population to a comparatively confined area has historically increased the risk of infectious disease outbreaks, including outbreaks of meningitis and respiratory infections.

The HPA commissions the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) to provide travel advice and a full list of recommendations for travel to Hajj can be found on the NaTHNaC website. This year’s tips include:

• Be up to date with all routine vaccinations including MMR and polio.
• Have a valid certificate of vaccination against meningococcal meningitis.
• Take a basic medical kit with you, including any regular prescription medicines and oral rehydration therapy and self-treatment for diarrhoea.
• Obtain comprehensive travel insurance.
• Have the seasonal flu jab, if you meet the criteria for flu vaccination because you are aged 65 or over, have underlying health conditions that would make you susceptible to complications from flu or you are pregnant. Your GP will advise.

The full list of advice and recommendations from NaTHNaC can be found at: www.nathnac.org/travel/factsheets/Hajj_Umrah.htm

Professor Qutub Syed, Director, HPA North West, said: "It’s really important for pilgrims to seek medical advice about their trip, to protect themselves from infection and to ensure that they comply with Saudi Arabia’s entry requirements for Hajj.

“For instance, a valid certificate of vaccination against meningococcal meningitis is an entry requirement.

“It’s not just a case of ticking off a list of vaccinations. Every pilgrim is unique and should see their GP to determine what their health needs might be during Hajj. For many, the pilgrimage will be the trip of a lifetime. If they are well prepared, they will ensure that it is a healthy trip and memorable for the right reasons.”

Ends

Note to Editors

Further advice and information about travel to the Hajj can be obtained from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office:

www.fco.gov.uk/en/travel-and-living-abroad/your-trip/hajj-pilgrims

Press release issued by the Communications Department, HPA North West. Tel 0844-2251295 and select Option 2.

Last reviewed: 1 May 2012