The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 1 Travel Health Notice for Saudi Arabia: Meningococcal Disease in Saudi Arabia – Vaccine Requirements for Travel During the Hajj and Umrah Pilgrimages.
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 .
Traveler Information
Clinician Information
For Assistance Contact:
U.S. Embassy Riyadh
Abdullah Ibn Hudhafah As Sahmi Street Roundabout no. 9, Diplomatic Quarter Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Telephone: (966) (11) 835-4000
Fax: (966) (11) 488-7670
RiyadhACS@state.gov
U.S. Consulate General Jeddah
Al Safa Street, Al Muhammadiyah District, near the new American School building
Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Telephone: (966) (12) 220-5000
Fax: (966) (12) 220-5093
JeddahACS@state.gov
U.S. Consulate General Dhahran
Off King Saud bin Abdulaziz Road, at the corner of Salaheddin al Ayoubi Street and Prince Fahd bin Sultan bin Abdulaziz Street
Telephone: (966) (13) 839-5700
DhahranACS@state.gov
U.S. Department of State – Consular Affairs
888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444
Saudi Arabia Country Information
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Meningococcal Disease in Saudi Arabia – Vaccine Requirements for Travel During the Hajj and Umrah Pilgrimages.
