January 9, 2025 | by habibeharam.pk
For travelers from Pakistan, Saudi Arabia has put a mandatory requirement of Polio while showing the involvement of health workers from all across the world. These travelers were also polio providers along with those from Poland, Afghanistan, Kenya, Congo and Mozambique. If you are going on a business trip, umrah, hajj or simply any other casual vacation here is what you should be prepared for.
Why is Polio Vaccination Now Mandatory?Saudi Arabia has decided to take this action contrary to the polio risks posed by certain countries. Pakistan is till date among the few endemic countries with polio, according to the WHO. Though there have been substantial measures taken to eradicate it, cases still crop up from time to time. mass congregations, like hajj and umrah make the disease more prone to spread, thus making vaccination especially for the travelers entering the kingdom of Saudi Arabia necessary
kingdom’s this action recently conforms with global will seeking to eradicate polio and are once again reiterating the nobility of public health organizations.
The mandatory vaccination applies primarily to travelers from these countries where the risk of polio persists:
Ensure that you comply with this new condition before leaving home if you are coming from any of the region to Saudi Arabia.
Specifically, for Pakistani visitors, it is a vital measure to make preparations for uhrah or hajj trips, for business assignments or for visiting family members who are already in the KSA.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure you’re ready for the new vaccination requirement:
Polio vaccination is mandatory, meaning you will need to receive the vaccine before traveling to Saudi Arabia. Travelers are typically required to take the Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV) or the Injectable Polio Vaccine (IPV). These vaccines help provide immunity to the virus and prevent its spread.
You must carry proof of vaccination, often referred to as the International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP). Before heading to the airport, make sure this document is completed and signed by an approved healthcare provider.
Vaccination certificates are typically valid for 12 months, so check your travel dates to ensure it covers your trip.
If you are traveling with children under the age of five, they must also be vaccinated against polio, as young children are especially susceptible to the disease. Be sure to schedule their vaccination early to avoid delays in travel preparation.
Make sure you confirm the vaccination requirement with your airline or travel agent ahead of your trip. Include this step as part of your travel checklist to avoid last-minute surprises at the point of entry or during check-in.
Saudi Arabia frequently adapts its entry requirements based on public health concerns and global policies. Check with the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, or visit Saudi Arabia’s official government websites, to familiarize yourself with any new health-related travel mandates that may be in place.
Ensuring travelers are vaccinated against polio is about more than just individual health—it’s a collective effort to prevent the disease’s resurgence globally. The virus is highly contagious, spreading through contaminated water or food, and can have potentially devastating effects, especially for young children.
Mandating vaccination for travelers not only protects the population within Saudi Arabia but also contributes to worldwide polio eradication initiatives spearheaded by organizations like the WHO.
What Does It Mean for Pakistani Expats and Travelers?Whether you are a Pakistani expatriate returning to Saudi Arabia or are planning on going for a umrah or hajj, its important that you keep yourself up to date with these regulations. This ensures that your transportation goes as planned and with no substantial hurdles or delays.
Also, this necessity brings out the role of disease awareness within the community. Supporting international travellers to get vaccinated gives you more chances of preventing diseases such as polio to from spreading.
If you are in Pakistan or another affected country, there are ways to support your community in meeting this new mandate. Consider doing the following:
By fostering a proactive approach, travelers can meet the requirements without disruption while contributing to the broader fight against polio.
Saudi Arabia’s new polio vaccination mandate is a reminder of the pivotal role vaccinations play in combatting public health challenges. Whether you’re a travel blogger helping others prep for their pilgrimages or an expat eagerly waiting to return to the Kingdom, adhering to vaccination protocols ensures a safer, healthier travel experience.
Need further assistance in preparing for your trip? Reach out to your local travel health clinic or consult healthcare professionals to ensure all your travel requirements are met. Staying informed and prepared is the key to enjoying a smooth and fulfilling travel experience. Read this blog published by Geo News.
