Doha, Qatar: The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) has announced the health requirements for the upcoming Hajj season in 1446 AH (2025), emphasizing its commitment to ensuring the safety and health of pilgrims visiting the Holy Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque. The measures aim to enable pilgrims to perform their rituals safely while minimizing the risks of infectious diseases.

Key vaccine requirements include the mandatory meningococcal (quadrivalent ACYW-135) vaccine for all pilgrims. The COVID-19 vaccine is compulsory for high-risk groups such as those over 65, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic conditions like heart or respiratory diseases, kidney failure, and immunodeficiencies. The ministry also advises the COVID-19 vaccine for everyone aged 18 and above and recommends the seasonal influenza vaccine for all pilgrims.

COVID-19 immunity can be demonstrated through a single dose of the updated 2024-2025 vaccine, completion of prior doses from 2021-2023, or recovery from a confirmed COVID-19 infection in 2024. Additional vaccines, like the pneumococcal and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccines, are recommended for older adults and those at risk of complications.

Vaccines are available at primary healthcare centers across the country, with the ministry stressing the importance of receiving them at least 10 days before traveling to Saudi Arabia. The meningococcal vaccine remains mandatory for Umrah performers and visitors.

Dr. Hamad Eid Al-Rumaihi, Director of Health Protection and Communicable Disease Control, urged Qatari pilgrims to adhere to preventive measures and obtain necessary vaccines to reduce the risk of infectious diseases. He advised those with chronic illnesses to consult their doctors before travel and ensure they have enough medication.

Aligned with the National Health Strategy 2024-2030, these measures reflect the MoPH's proactive approach to disease prevention and population health improvement. The MoPH, in collaboration with the Ministry of Awgaf and Islamic Affairs and the Qatar Red Crescent, has also released the Pilgrim's Health Guide, offering vital health and preventive instructions for Hajj.

For more information, the unified health sector call center is available at 16000, and the Hajj Health Guide can be accessed on the Ministry of Public Health's website.