Pakistan Secures 37,500 Meningitis Vaccine Doses Amid Umrah Pilgrim Demand

Pakistan has recently acquired a shipment of 37,500 meningitis vaccine doses to address the pressing needs of Umrah pilgrims. This development comes in the wake of Saudi Arabia’s earlier mandate, issued on January 7, requiring all Umrah pilgrims to be vaccinated against meningitis.

The consignment, imported by a private pharmaceutical firm, aims to alleviate the vaccine shortage that had left many pilgrims in a quandary. According to the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP), 16,000 doses have already been dispatched to Punjab, with the remaining doses allocated to Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Balochistan based on regional demands.

In Lahore, where the scarcity was particularly acute, the Punjab government has prioritized vaccine distribution. The vaccine is now available at major pharmacies across the city, priced at Rs6,500. To prevent hoarding and black marketing, sales are strictly regulated; pilgrims must present their passport, Saudi visa, and confirmed airline ticket to purchase the vaccine. Authorities have issued stern warnings against overcharging, emphasizing that such practices will not be tolerated.

Despite Saudi Arabia’s recent suspension of the meningitis vaccine requirement for Umrah pilgrims, those who planned their pilgrimage before this policy change are still obligated to adhere to the previous health regulations. DRAP advises that the vaccine should be administered at least 10 days prior to travel, and pilgrims are encouraged to consult with a physician before receiving the vaccination.

#PakistanHealth #MeningitisVaccine #UmrahPilgrims #SaudiArabia #PublicHealth