Meningococcal Disease in Saudi Arabia - Vaccine Requirements for Travel During the Hajj and Umrah Pilgrimages

Level 4 - Avoid All Travel
Level 3 - Reconsider Nonessential Travel
Level 2 - Practice Enhanced Precautions
Level 1 - Practice Usual Precautions

Key points

  • The Hajj, or pilgrimage to Mecca, Saudi Arabia, is one of the world’s largest mass gatherings. In 2024, Hajj will take place during June 14–19th. In addition, Umrah pilgrimage to Mecca can occur throughout the year.
  • Mass gatherings, such as Hajj or Umrah, can increase the risk for infections such as meningococcal disease.
  • In 2024, there have been reports of meningococcal disease in travelers who had been in Saudi Arabia for Umrah. 
  • Before traveling to Saudi Arabia, you should be up to date on all routine vaccines and travel related vaccines, including meningococcal vaccine.
  • Saudi Arabia requires that all travelers aged one year and older arriving for Hajj or Umrah pilgrimage show proof they have received a quadrivalent (ACWY) meningococcal vaccine in the last 3–5 years (depending on vaccine type) and at least 10 days prior to the planned travel. This vaccine is recommended for protection against meningococcal disease caused by serogroups A, C, W, and Y.
  • Visit a travel medicine specialist or healthcare professional 4–6 weeks before travel for specific advice related to your destination and this event. 
  • You should seek medical care immediately if you develop fever, headache, stiff neck, nausea, or vomiting during or after travel.
  • Monitor travel warnings and alerts from the U.S. Department of State and consider signing up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program.
Meningococcal Disease

Meningococcal disease refers to illness caused by bacteria called Neisseria meningitidis. These illnesses are often severe, can be deadly, and include infections of the lining of the brain and spinal cord (meningitis) and bloodstream. Keeping up to date with recommended vaccines is the best protection against meningococcal disease.

People spread meningococcal bacteria to other people by sharing respiratory and throat secretions (saliva or spit). Generally, it takes close contact (for example, coughing or kissing) or lengthy contact (for example, sharing a room) to spread these bacteria. Crowding and mass gatherings have been associated with meningococcal disease outbreaks in the past.

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