HAJ pilgrims from Bahrain are being urged to take all necessary vaccinations well before they travel to Saudi Arabia.
Health Ministry public health and primary care assistant under-secretary Dr Mariam Al Jalahma recommended every traveller take the routine vaccinations to ensure they stay protected during the season, starting next month.
“We have started a campaign in the country’s health centres to tell all pilgrims to take the necessary vaccinations, but these are vitally important for those with chronic medical conditions,” she said.
“These include those patients suffering from diabetes, blood pressure, heart disease and respiratory and kidney diseases as well as pregnant women.”
Dr Al Jalahma said vaccinations for meningitis, diphtheria and tetanus were being provided.
“We also have plenty of H1N1 swine flu vaccinations and urge all those going to take these as well,” she said.
The vaccinations are being offered from Saturday to Wednesday from 7am to midday at all health centres.
All Haj contractors are being asked to ensure all pilgrims meet immunisation requirements.
“Some pilgrims who have performed Haj in the last two years and wish to travel again need not take the vaccinations they have already had,” said Dr Al Jalahma.
“After they have taken the vaccinations, they will be provided with health cards and plastic bracelets carrying their names to certify they meet all health requirements.
Dr Al Jalahma said vaccinations were also being offered to pilgrims’ families in a bid to prevent them from getting infected.
“We normally see a surge of cases of flu and some other diseases after pilgrims return and this is part of a process to prevent that,” she said.
Health Ministry public and international relations director Adel Ali Abdulla earlier said regular hand hygiene could help prevent infections.
High risk categories include the elderly, those suffering from chronic diseases like diabetes and hypertension, sickle cell patients, pregnant women and those with cardiac conditions.
Gulf Daily