Meningitis (ACWY) – A compulsory vaccine required by the Saudi government for entry. Book your Meningitis ACWY vaccine today.
Hepatitis A – Protects against liver infection caused by contaminated food or water. Book your Hepatitis A vaccine today.
Hepatitis B – Recommended due to potential exposure through medical procedures or close contact. Learn more about the Hepatitis B vaccine.
Typhoid – Spread through contaminated food and drink. Find out about the Typhoid vaccine.
Tetanus – Protects against infections from cuts and injuries during your journey. Book your Tetanus vaccine today.
Influenza – Strongly recommended as flu outbreaks are common due to large gatherings. Stay protected with the Flu vaccine.
COVID-19 – The Saudi government may require proof of COVID-19 vaccination. Check NHS guidance.
Hajj and Umrah Vaccinations – Essential Guide from Corbett Pharmacy Droitwich Travel Clinic
Introduction: Preparing for Hajj and Umrah with the Right Vaccines
As Chief Pharmacist and Travel Clinic Lead at Corbett Pharmacy in Droitwich, I’m honoured to support many patients in preparing for their spiritual journey to Hajj and Umrah.
Every year, millions of Muslims travel to Saudi Arabia to perform these holy pilgrimages. With such large gatherings of people from around the world, the risk of infectious diseases spreading is high. That’s why the Saudi Arabian authorities have strict vaccination requirements for entry.
At Corbett Pharmacy – Droitwich Travel Clinic, I’ll make sure you have all the vaccines, certificates, and advice you need – so you can focus on your pilgrimage with peace of mind.
➡️ Ready to prepare for your trip? Book your Hajj and Umrah vaccines today
Why Are Vaccines Required for Hajj and Umrah?
During Hajj and Umrah, millions of pilgrims gather in close quarters, share accommodation, and travel together. This creates the perfect environment for infectious diseases to spread.
To protect pilgrims, the Saudi Ministry of Health requires proof of vaccination for certain diseases before you are granted a visa.
These vaccines protect both you and the wider community, helping to prevent outbreaks during the pilgrimage.
Mandatory Vaccine for Hajj and Umrah – Meningococcal ACWY
The Meningococcal ACWY vaccine is mandatory for all pilgrims travelling to Saudi Arabia for Hajj and Umrah.
Protects against meningitis strains A, C, W, and Y
Required for all ages over 2 years
Proof of vaccination must be shown before your visa is approved
Certificate is valid for 5 years (check your dates if you’ve had it before)
➡️ Learn more about the Meningococcal ACWY vaccine
➡️ Book your Hajj and Umrah vaccine appointment today
Strongly Recommended Vaccines for Hajj and Umrah
In addition to ACWY, I recommend pilgrims also consider the following vaccines to protect themselves during travel:
1. Seasonal Influenza Vaccine
Recommended every year, especially for large gatherings
Helps reduce the risk of flu outbreaks among pilgrims
Particularly important for older travellers or those with health conditions
2. Hepatitis A Vaccine
Protects against liver infection spread by contaminated food and water
Risk is higher in areas with large gatherings and shared catering
➡️ Hepatitis A vaccine information
3. Typhoid Vaccine
Protects against a serious food and waterborne infection
Typhoid is common in parts of Asia and the Middle East
➡️ Typhoid vaccine details
4. Hepatitis B Vaccine
Recommended for travellers who may require medical or dental treatment abroad
Also protects against risk from shaving, tattooing, or accidental blood exposure
➡️ Hepatitis B vaccine information
5. Tetanus Vaccine
Protects against bacterial infection from cuts, wounds, or injuries
Many pilgrims walk long distances in crowded areas, increasing risk of injury
➡️ Tetanus vaccine guide
6. Polio Booster (if required)
Polio vaccination is part of the UK childhood schedule
For some travellers, a booster may be required depending on destination history
7. COVID-19 Vaccine (if applicable)
Saudi authorities may change entry requirements depending on global health advice
I always advise checking up-to-date guidance before you travel
Optional but Useful Vaccines for Certain Pilgrims
Depending on your health, age, and travel plans, I may also recommend:
Cholera vaccine – for those in humanitarian or aid settings
Rabies vaccine – for travellers extending their trip or visiting rural areas
Yellow Fever vaccine – required if travelling via certain African countries before entering Saudi Arabia
When Should You Get Your Vaccines?
Timing is very important:
Meningococcal ACWY – must be given at least 10 days before travel
Hepatitis A and Typhoid – ideally given 2–3 weeks before departure
Hepatitis B – requires multiple doses, so best started 6–8 weeks before travel
Flu vaccine – ideally before flu season, but available year-round
➡️ Don’t leave it too late – Book your Hajj and Umrah vaccines now
What Happens at Your Appointment?
At Corbett Pharmacy – Droitwich Travel Clinic, your Hajj and Umrah consultation will include:
Review of your travel plans and medical history
Explanation of required and recommended vaccines
Administration of the vaccines you need
Issuance of official Meningococcal ACWY certificate for your visa
The process is quick and stress-free, ensuring you leave with everything you need.
Travel Health Tips for Hajj and Umrah Pilgrims
Alongside vaccination, I always recommend:
Stay hydrated – the climate can be extremely hot
Wash hands frequently or use sanitiser
Wear a mask in crowded areas if you’re prone to respiratory issues
Eat freshly cooked food and avoid raw or undercooked items
Seek medical care quickly if you develop fever, diarrhoea, or breathing problems
Frequently Asked Questions – Hajj and Umrah Vaccines
1. Which vaccines are mandatory for Hajj and Umrah?
The Meningococcal ACWY vaccine is mandatory for all pilgrims.
2. How long is the ACWY certificate valid?
It’s valid for 5 years, but must be given at least 10 days before travel.
3. Do I need the flu vaccine for Hajj?
Yes, it’s strongly recommended because of the large crowds and high transmission risk.
4. Do I need Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccines?
Yes, they’re highly recommended for food and water safety.
5. Can children get Hajj vaccines?
Yes – children over 2 years old also require the ACWY vaccine for travel.
6. Can I get all vaccines in one appointment?
Yes – at Corbett Pharmacy, we can provide all required and recommended vaccines in a single visit.
7. What if I’m travelling via Africa or South America?
You may need additional vaccines like Yellow Fever. I’ll check your itinerary and advise.
Why Choose Corbett Pharmacy – Droitwich Travel Clinic for Hajj and Umrah Vaccines?
Patients across Droitwich, Worcester, and Worcestershire choose us because:
We are an approved Meningococcal ACWY vaccination centre
We issue official certificates for visa applications
I (Aran Bassi) personally provide every consultation
We stock all essential vaccines in one convenient location
We offer same-week and evening appointments to suit your schedule
➡️ Book your Hajj and Umrah vaccines today
Conclusion: Travel Safely on Your Spiritual Journey
Performing Hajj and Umrah is one of the most important journeys of a lifetime. Protecting your health – and the health of fellow pilgrims – is a vital part of your preparation.
At Corbett Pharmacy – Droitwich Travel Clinic, I’ll make sure you have the right vaccines, the correct certificates, and the peace of mind to focus on your spiritual duties.
➡️ Book your Hajj and Umrah vaccine consultation today
Written by:
Aran Bassi
Chief Pharmacist & Travel Clinic Lead
Corbett Pharmacy – Droitwich Travel Clinic
36 Corbett Avenue, Droitwich, WR9 7BE
📞 01905 795618