Risk / Health Info for Saudi Arabia

Shots are recommended if you are going to Saudi Arabia. Hepatitis A and typhoid vaccines will help you to avoid two GI illnesses.

Some groups of travellers should consider a hepatitis B vaccine. These include children, frequent and long-stay travellers as well as those who may be exposed to bodily fluids.

Do you need a yellow fever certificate to go to Saudi Arabia? The answer is yes. The shot gives lifelong immunity and your certificate is proof of this. So long as you keep the certificate safe, you will never need to get another yellow fever vaccination.

Do Umrah and Hajj pilgrims need vaccinations?

Many worshippers from around the world assemble in the holy cities of Mecca and Madinah (or Medina). This can make it hard to see a doctor in Saudi Arabia. Umrah and Hajj travel vaccines will help you to avoid preventable illness and save you from a lot of inconvenience during your trip.

If you are travelling for Hajj pilgrimage you will need a certificate proving that you have been vaccinated against meningococcal meningitis. Canadian Travel Clinics can provide this: let your healthcare advisor know about your plans.

We offer a popular Umrah Travel Vaccinations Package, and a Hajj Travel Vaccinations Package at competitive prices. Book a consultation with one of our nurses today to determine your individual requirements for your pilgrimage this year.

During Ramadan and Hajj there are often outbreaks of contagious diseases and it is easy to pick up a cold, flu or respiratory infection. Bring a set of basic medicines such as acetaminophen and anything you need to treat the symptoms of a cold.

Are there any other health risks in Saudi Arabia?

In Saudi Arabia’s hot, dry climate it is very important to stay hydrated. Keep your fluid intake high, and ensure you get enough salt.

There have been some cases recently of Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) in Saudi Arabia. This infection has a high mortality rate. It is thought to be contracted from camels, and you should take hygiene measures such as handwashing if you visit a farm, barn or market or touch a camel. Avoid contact with sick animals. Do not drink raw camel milk or urine; and do not eat meat that has not been properly cooked.

It is possible to several mosquito-borne illnesses in Saudi Arabia, including malaria and yellow fever, so it is a very good idea to avoid bites wherever possible. You should wear clothing with good limb coverage and use a reliable insect repellent. Sleep under nets wherever possible. A yellow fever vaccine is available. Ask your travel health advisor if you need malaria prophylaxis.

What are the healthcare facilities like in Saudi Arabia?

There are excellent hospitals and medical centres in the main cities of Saudi Arabia. There are healthcare centres and smaller hospitals in most towns – but if you need complex care a long-distance transfer may be needed. Health insurance is needed if you go to Saudi Arabia.

Malaria in Saudi Arabia

Malaria prophylaxis will be required for some parts of Saudi Arabia at certain times of year. There is no malaria vaccine, but there are anti-malaria drugs that should be taken before, during and after travelling to certain at-risk countries. Speak with your healthcare provider six weeks before your trip, as not all prophylaxis regimes are appropriate for all regions and all individuals.

Schistosomiasis in Saudi Arabia

The schistosomiasis parasite enters humans through the skin during contact with fresh water. To prevent infection, avoid swimming or paddling in lakes and streams in Saudi Arabia. This condition is also known as bilharzia.

MERS-CoV in Saudi Arabia

MERS-CoV is a viral respiratory infection with a high mortality rate. It is caused by the coronavirus and is thought to be contracted from infected camels. You should take diligent hygiene measures such as thorough handwashing if you visit a farm, barn or market or touch a camel. Avoid contact with sick animals. Do not drink raw camel milk or urine; and do not eat camel meat that has not been properly cooked. The Government of Canada has issued a travel health advisory about Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus in Saudi Arabia.