Umrah rule sees spike in demand for flu shot

PILGRIMS RUSH TO OBTAIN 10-DAY VALIDITY CERTIFICATE

With some UAE airlines beginning to implement the new influenza vaccination rule for passengers flying from the country to Saudi Arabia for Umrah, hospitals have reported an increase in demand for flu vaccine.

Earlier this week, the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) declared the influenza vaccination mandatory for all travellers heading to perform Umrah and Haj, emphasising the importance of adhering to all vaccination protocols and health precautions.

The ministry’s announcement stated that Umrah travellers would be required to show proof of their influenza vaccination starting March 26, 2024. The ministry also recommended vaccinations to be administered at least 10 days before departure to guarantee vaccine efficacy and immunity.

Rush at hospitals

Meanwhile, multiple private health care groups told Gulf News that their facilities have observed an increase in demand for influenza vaccinations over the past few days, particularly from individuals preparing for Umrah.

“The announcement has prompted many individuals, especially those planning to undertake Umrah this Ramadan, to prioritise getting vaccinated to ensure compliance with the requirements set by the authorities,” said Dr Lulu Azeez A, specialist, Internal Medicine, Aster Hospital Al Ghusais.

Get vaccinated immediately

Doctors pointed out the need for those wishing to perform Umrah during Ramadan to get vaccinated immediately to meet the 10-day validity requirement for the vaccine certificate which is to ensure that the passengers have gained immunity against the flu viruses.

Dr Saira Haider, general practitioner, Family Medicine, Burjeel Day Surgery Centre, Al Reem, said: “As vaccination is now mandatory for travel, some patients are seeking vaccination services on short notice, as they must update their vaccination status on the Al Hosn app prior to departure.”

“It is important to note that optimal immunity development typically requires at least 10 days after vaccination. Therefore, individuals planning to travel within the next two weeks are strongly advised to receive their vaccinations promptly,” said Dr Haider. Echoing the same, Dr Azeez, said: “It is advisable for pilgrims intending to perform Umrah during Ramadan to promptly get vaccinated to meet the 10-day validity period for the vaccine certificate. Given the rush and the necessity to ensure adequate protection against influenza, pilgrims should not delay in receiving the vaccine. Early vaccination ensures sufficient time for the body to develop immunity against the flu virus and for the vaccine certificate to remain valid throughout the pilgrimage period.”

Dr Jyothish George, specialist dermatologist and director of Homecare services and Vaccination with Prime Hospital, said: “Though many people have taken the flu vaccine before, our facilities are seeing an increase in flu vaccine related enquiries.”

Special arrangements

Health care groups said they are fully equipped to handle the increased demand and have ample stocks of vaccines. They said they are also making special arrangements to meet the sudden rush.

These include walk-in vaccinations, homecare services, increased staffing, extended hours, and streamlined scheduling to support efficient vaccine administration.