Oman health: Medical exam a must for Haj pilgrims

Muscat: Citizens opting for Haj have been advised to go for medical examination and vaccination ahead of pilgrimage this year, the Ministry of Health (MOH) said.
In a statement, the MOH said medical examination and vaccination can be carried out between May 22 and June 4, 2016. “Persons who have received a text message approval from the Ministry of Awqaf and Religious Affairs should go to health institutions,” it said.
The vaccinations which are required include: Quadra-vaccination against meningococcal meningitis and seasonal Influenza vaccine. “Quadra-vaccination against meningococcal meningitis vaccine provides a three-year-immunity. Hence all those who have been vaccinated with the same vaccine within a period of three years and hold relevant documents to prove this are exempted from taking this vaccine,” the statement said.
Regarding seasonal Influenza vaccine, it said that the vaccine provides a seasonal immunity and should be repeated annually. “These vaccines are essential to enter the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as requested from healthcare authorities there,” it added.
The requirements while visiting health institutions include an identity card or passport for Omanis, a resident card for non-Omanis that should be completed as part of the procedures from the Ministry of Awqaf and Religious Affairs. “All pilgrims for this year to adhere and comply with the above mentioned instructions in order to prevent the spread of these preventable diseases and to protect the public health,” it added.