Meningitis-ACWY Vaccination

Protecting Pilgrims

Every year, millions of Muslims from around the world gather in Saudi Arabia for the Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages. These sacred journeys are not only spiritually significant but also present unique public health challenges.

Among the most important health measures for pilgrims is vaccination against meningococcal disease—specifically, the Men-ACWY vaccine. This vaccine is crucial for safeguarding individual and community health, meeting legal requirements, and ensuring a smooth pilgrimage experience.

Who Needs the MenACWY Vaccine?

All pilgrims aged one year and above who intend to perform Hajj are required to receive the MenACWY vaccine. This rule applies regardless of nationality or country of origin. The Saudi Ministry of Health mandates that every Hajj pilgrim, as well as seasonal workers in Hajj areas, must present a valid certificate of vaccination against the A, C, W, and Y strains of meningococcal bacteria.

For Umrah, the requirements have recently evolved. While the Saudi authorities have relaxed the compulsory vaccination rule for Umrah, the Ministry of Health and international health bodies—including the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the Muslim Council of Britain—strongly recommend that all Umrah pilgrims also receive the MenACWY vaccine due to ongoing outbreaks and the high risk of disease transmission in crowded settings.

The Health Risks of Not Getting Vaccinated

Meningococcal disease is a severe bacterial infection that can cause meningitis (inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord) and septicaemia (blood poisoning). These conditions can develop rapidly and may be fatal or result in life-changing disabilities such as hearing loss, brain damage, or limb amputation.

Pilgrimage settings are particularly high-risk due to extreme crowding, close contact, and the mixing of people from countries with varying levels of disease prevalence.

Outbreaks linked to Hajj and Umrah have occurred in the past, including major international incidents in 1987, 2000, and 2001, as well as recent cases in 2024 and 2025. In 2025, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported clusters of meningococcal disease among Umrah pilgrims, with most cases occurring in unvaccinated individuals.

Not being vaccinated puts both the pilgrim and their close contacts at risk. The disease can spread rapidly among household members and communities upon return, making vaccination a critical public health measure.

Legal Requirements for Entry into Saudi Arabia

For Hajj:

The Saudi Ministry of Health requires all Hajj pilgrims (aged one year and above) to present a valid certificate of MenACWY vaccination upon entry. The vaccine must be administered at least 10 days before arrival and within the last 3 to 5 years, depending on the vaccine type. This rule is strictly enforced at ports of entry, and failure to comply can result in denial of entry or boarding at the point of departure.

For Umrah:

As of 2026, Saudi authorities have lifted the compulsory MenACWY vaccination requirement for Umrah. However, the Ministry of Health continues to recommend vaccination, and many travel agencies and airlines may still require proof of vaccination as part of their protocols. The UK government and the Muslim Council of Britain also advise all Umrah pilgrims to be vaccinated due to ongoing outbreaks and the risk of transmission.

Timing and Validity of the Men-ACWY Vaccine

• Timing: The vaccine must be administered at least 10 days before arrival in Saudi Arabia to ensure adequate protection and compliance with entry requirements.
• Certificate validity: The vaccine gives 5 years protection and therefore the certificate also is valid for 5 years
• Documentation: The certificate must specify the vaccine type and date. If the type is not indicated, the certificate is only valid for 3 years.

How to Present Your Vaccination Certificate

• Carry the original certificate with you when travelling.
• Ensure the certificate includes your full name (matching your passport), vaccine type, batch number, and date of administration.
• The certificate should be stamped and signed by the healthcare provider or clinic issuing it.
• Keep your certificate easily accessible for inspection at airports and Saudi entry points.
• For those vaccinated abroad, certificates can be documented at Saudi health centres upon arrival.

Guidance from Key Authorities

1. Saudi Ministry of Health

The Saudi Ministry of Health regularly updates health requirements for Hajj and Umrah, emphasizing the importance of the MenACWY vaccine for all pilgrims aged one year and above. The Ministry provides detailed instructions on vaccine types, timing, and certificate documentation, and urges all pilgrims to comply to ensure their safety and the safety of others.

2. UK Government (NHS and Foreign Office)

The UK government, through the NHS and Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), requires proof of MenACWY vaccination for Hajj visa applications and strongly recommends it for Umrah pilgrims. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued repeated reminders due to recent outbreaks, and the NHS provides information on where and how to get vaccinated.

3. Muslim Council of Britain

The Muslim Council of Britain echoes these recommendations, urging all pilgrims to be vaccinated against meningitis before travelling. They highlight the dual importance of fulfilling legal requirements and protecting the health of the pilgrim, their family, and the wider community.

Safety and Side Effects of the MenACWY Vaccine

The MenACWY vaccine is safe and well-tolerated. Most side effects are mild and temporary, such as soreness at the injection site, headache, or mild fever. Serious allergic reactions are extremely rare. The vaccine can be given at the same time as other travel vaccines, and there are no contraindications for pregnant women or most people with chronic conditions.

Lessons from Past Outbreaks

History shows that mass gatherings like Hajj and Umrah can trigger international outbreaks of meningococcal disease. Major incidents in 1987, 2000, and 2001 led to global spread and fatalities among pilgrims and their contacts. The introduction of the MenACWY vaccine requirement has dramatically reduced these risks, but recent cases in 2024 and 2025 underscore the ongoing need for vigilance and high vaccination coverage.

Practical Tips for Pilgrims

• Book your vaccine early: Schedule your MenACWY vaccination at least six weeks before travel to ensure compliance and avoid last-minute issues.
• Check your vaccination records
• Carry your certificate: Keep your vaccination certificate with your passport and travel documents at all times.
• Monitor your health: Be alert for symptoms of meningitis (fever, headache, stiff neck, rash) during and after your pilgrimage. Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms develop.
• Practice good hygiene: Wash hands regularly, avoid sharing personal items, and follow public health advice to reduce the risk of infection.

Conclusion: A Safe and Blessed Journey

The MenACWY vaccine is more than a travel requirement—it is a vital shield against a potentially deadly disease. By getting vaccinated, pilgrims protect themselves, their families, and the global Muslim community. Ensure you meet all health and legal requirements, carry your documentation, and focus on the spiritual fulfilment of your pilgrimage with peace of mind.

For the latest updates and detailed guidance, visit the Saudi Ministry of Health, NHS, and Muslim Council of Britain websites.

How Manor Chemist Supports Your Travel Health

At Manor Chemist, we offer a full travel clinic designed to make
your pre‑travel health preparation simple and stress‑free. With over 10
years of travel clinic experience, our trained team provides:

• Expert, personalised advice
• Meningitis ACWY vaccination
• Digital and paper certification for travel
• Guidance on other recommended travel vaccines
• Support tailored to your destination and itinerary