Coimbatore: Vaccination Drive Organised for Haj Pilgrims

A vaccination drive for Haj pilgrims was organised recently according to guidelines of Saudi Arabian Government, that has made immunisation mandatory for travellers before entering Mecca.

Saudi Arabia requires the health certificates of every pilgrim for visa clearance.

Speaking to reporters, the president of the Hidayathul Islam Safiya Jamath, Haji Hinayathulla, appreciated the government's initiative.

"As per of Saudi Arabia Government's resolution and the Indian Government recommendation, it is very important and compulsory for Haj pilgrims to get administered with antibiotic vaccination, polio drops etc. We are grateful to the government of India for providing us such costly vaccine free of cost," Hinayathulla said.

In order to facilitate Haj pilgrims, the Centre organises medical camps across the country, where vaccination and other check-ups are conducted free of cost.

Haj Pilgrims Being Tested For Presence Of Bird Flu Infection
News reports from Saudi Arabia has confirmed the negative bird flu infection status of Haj pilgrims, on their way to Mecca.

Interacting with media, Sameena, one of the Haj pilgrims, said the government's move has benefited people as they are getting the services at the doorstep.

"This is the first time I am going to Haj, and, I am very happy. As per government rules, today we were administered with polio drops and vaccination for preventing us from all viral infection during Haj pilgrimage," Sameena said.

Oral Polio Vaccine Necessary for Haj Pilgrims
The Ministry of Health of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia have taken a decision that all Haj Pilgrims from Afghanistan, India and Pakistan should receive at least one dose of Oral Polio Vaccine.

The Haj starts on the eighth day of the lunar month of Dhul Hijja, which falls this year from October 24-29.

Source-ANI