Kuwait’s Ministry of Health has started its Hajj 2025 immunization program, requiring all pilgrims to get necessary vaccinations at least 10 days prior to their departure for Saudi Arabia. This follows Saudi health guidelines to ensure the health and safety of millions who make the pilgrimage.
Compulsory vaccinations include quadrivalent meningococcal (ACYW-135) and a new COVID-19 dose for the 2024–2025 season. These are especially highlighted among high-risk populations like the over 65 age group, expectant women, and those living with chronic diseases.
The ministry also advises extra vaccines such as seasonal influenza, bacterial pneumonia, diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough, polio, measles, chickenpox, and mumps. Pilgrims’ family members and close contacts are encouraged to have their vaccinations up to date, particularly if they have never had a meningitis vaccine within the last five years.
All the vaccinations are given free of cost at the government-run health centers in Kuwait. The pilgrims are advised to get their shots done well in time in order to be in compliance with the health standards and to make their Hajj pilgrimage safe and spiritually rewarding.