Take vaccines to ensure safe Haj

As the time for the annual Haj season comes closer, it is critical for all pilgrims to take the required vaccinations well in advance. Haj pilgrims will be required to get the H1N1 vaccination as a compulsory procedure, in addition to other regular vaccines. The UAE has received its first batch of 40,000 units, which was made available starting on Sunday, first for the most vulnerable groups — children, pregnant women and individuals with chronic diseases.

"The person remains susceptible for two weeks, that's why we started with Haj pilgrims, since we want to make sure the vaccine is effective by the time they reach Makkah", said Dr Mahmoud Fekri, CEO of Health Policies and Head of the H1N1 National Scientific Committee. To ensure the health and safety of everyone, it is important that all Haj pilgrims adhere to the set rules on receiving all the required vaccinations.